rev. 03/2023
Rhode Island Driver’s Manual – www.dmv.ri.gov
SIGNS
Regulatory Signs
Stop
Yield
Do Not Enter
No Trucks
No U-Turn
Wrong Way
No Parking
No Passing Zone
One Way
Speed Limit
Keep Right
No Right Turn On Red
Restricted Lane
Right or Straight
Left or Straight
One Way
Right Turn Only
No Left Turn
No Parking
Lane Restrictions
Guide Signs
Freeway Direction
Hospital
Exit Ahead
Food
Exit
Tourist Attraction
Mile Marker
R.I. Route
Telephone
U.S. Route
Hotels
Interstate Route
For Warning Signs, please refer to the inside of back cover
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Rhode Island Driver’s Manual – www.dmv.ri.gov
Organ Donation Saves Lives
When you apply for your license you will have
an opportunity to register as a donor.
Saying “Yes” can save a life!
Fact: Saying “Yes” to donation will not affect your medical care.
Fact: There is no cost to the donor or their family for donation to take place.
Fact: All major religions support organ and tissue donation or view it as an
individual’s decision.
Fact: In the United States, it is illegal to buy or sell organs for transplantation.
You Have the Power to Donate Life!
For more information please visit
www.DonateLifeRI.org
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Rhode Island Driver’s Manual – www.dmv.ri.gov
The Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is a governmental agency within the
Department of Revenue for the State of Rhode Island. Under the direction of the
Administrator (“Registrar”), the Division administers motor vehicle and
transportation related laws, specifically Motor Vehicle Titling, Registration and
Licensing Laws, Transportation Safety Laws, Motor Vehicle Franchise Dealer and
Manufacturer laws, and other Motor Vehicle-related laws and regulations as directed
by the Registrar for the State of Rhode Island. The division is responsible for motor
vehicle registration, testing licensing of motor vehicle operators, inspection of motor
vehicles, enforcement of laws relating to the issuance, suspension, and revocation of
motor vehicle registrations and driver’s license, and administration of the financial
responsibility law.
CCRI is New England’s largest comprehensive community college with an average of
nearly 18,000 students enrolled in credit classes each semester and thousands more
in non-credit workforce and personal enrichment classes. CCRI has full-service
campuses in Warwick, Lincoln, Providence, Newport County and satellite campuses
in Westerly and Downcity Providence.
The Community College of Rhode Island is responsible for the administration of the
majority of the traffic safety education programs in Rhode Island that provide
services to nearly 20,000 residents annually. Under the auspices of the Rhode
Island Office of Higher Education, the college operates the statewide Driver
Education and Motorcycle safety programs; manages the state’s two primary driver
retraining programs, the DWI course and the defensive driving course; and
administers all federal Commercial Driver’s License and School Bus Driver road
tests. The college also provides classroom training and recertification for all of
Rhode Island’s School Bus Drivers.
For information on any of these programs, contact the Division for Lifelong Learning
at CCRI at 401-825-1214 or visit our Web site at www.ccri.edu/cwce.
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Rhode Island Driver’s Manual – www.dmv.ri.gov
MESSAGE TO THE READER
Read this Driver’s Manual carefully. It contains a wealth of information that you will need to know to be a good
driver. The information on the written test and the road test is covered in this manual.
Once you have obtained your driver’s license, keep this manual where you can find it easily and refer to it.
Please read on . . .
PLEASE NOTE
Effective July 3, 2007, per Public Law 2006, Chapter 246, Article 7, Relating to Debt Management Act Joint
Resolutions, Section 4, the Division of Motor Vehicles instituted a technology surcharge applicable to all DMV
transactions for which a fee is typically charged.
Effective July 1, 2013, Rhode Island licenses and motor vehicle registrations are subject to surcharges as part of
the Transportation Investment and Debt Reduction Act of 2011.
Please be advised that the fees listed in this manual may be subject to these surcharges.
PLEASE NOTE
Effective October 12, 2010, a non-refundable fee of $25.00 (plus a $2.50 technology surcharge) will be charged
on all operator road tests conducted by the Division of Motor Vehicles. A road test may be scheduled at the time
of the computerized knowledge exam or anytime at any DMV facility. Please refer to www.dmv.ri.gov for
locations.
This manual is co-produced by Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles, the Community College of Rhode Island,
Driver Education Program, the Rhode Island State Police, and the Rhode Island Department of Transportation as
a guideline for the user to develop helpful procedures for safe and law abiding driving skills. While the manual
contains a great deal of useful information about state laws and driving procedures, this is not a legal document.
For up-to-date changes in laws, fees, and procedures, log onto to www.dmv.ri.gov or www.rilin.state.ri.us.
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Rhode Island Driver’s Manual – www.dmv.ri.gov
A MESSAGE FROM THE DOT DIRECTOR
Dear Future Drivers,
My name is Peter Alviti, Jr. and I am the Director of RI’s Department of Transportation. You
might assume that I write this letter because it’s my job to assure everyone that our roads and
bridges are built for safe driving and because I lead the charge for DOT’s highway safety
initiatives. Certainly that is undeniable. More importantly I write this letter because I care,
because I am a father, a grandfather, a husband, and a friend. The people I invest in drive on
our roads, walk on our streets, bike on our bike paths, and use public transportation. We all
have people who care about us, who invest in us, and who want us to succeed and to be safe.
We at the Department of Transportation want you to succeed as you progress through the
process of becoming an educated and responsible driver. That is why we support the
Department of Motor Vehicle’s well designed Driver’s Education program and manual. Please use
the tools you receive through this program to gain the knowledge you will need to become a
licensed Rhode Island driver. Once you earn your permit we suggest that you take time to gain
numerous and, well monitored, behind-the-wheel driving experience. A good driver knows and
respects the rules of the road. A good driver obeys posted speed limits. A good driver is never
impaired by alcohol or any other drug. A good driver always wears his/her seatbelt and only
allows belted passengers in their vehicle. A good driver doesn’t text and drive and they don’t
check their phone messages.
A GREAT driver understands that driving is not only about operating a vehicle. A GREAT driver
understands that they must respect pedestrians and other motorists. A GREAT driver recognizes
that their behavior on the road impacts others. A GREAT driver knows that there are people who
need them to return home safe and alive so they make good choices to protect themselves and
others. And a GREAT driver knows that driving in Rhode Island is a privilege, not a right, and
they honor that privilege by gaining driving knowledge, practicing their driving skills, and
respecting others who use our roadways.
I know you’ll be GREAT. Driver’s education is crucial for that greatness. Motor vehicle crashes
are the leading cause of death for all 15-20 year olds. That is the truth we at the RI DOT
recognize and it is the truth that drives us to support RI’s young driver training programs. Each
of you deserve the right to grow into safe and responsible drivers. We are honored to support
that right and to do all we can to help you remain safe, alive, and injury free.
Stay Safe and Make Good Decisions,
Peter Alviti, Jr., P.E.
Director
Rhode Island Department of Transportation
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Rhode Island Driver’s Manual – www.dmv.ri.gov
A MESSAGE FROM THE DMV ADMINISTRATOR
Welcome,
Obtaining a driver’s license is a memorable experience. It is a symbol of
independence and gives us the opportunity to become productive members of
society and no longer rely on others to get to school, work, or appointments.
But having a driver’s license comes with a high degree of responsibility and personal
accountability. When you get behind the wheel and drive around our great State,
and elsewhere, it is YOUR responsibility to do so in a manner that ensures your
safety, that of your passengers, and the public at large.
This Manual is designed to help you get your license by explaining the application
process, types of permits and licenses, and the road test requirements. It also is a
wealth of information on various topics such as basic skills, safety rules, signs and
markings, driving emergencies, and driving under the influence, to name a few.
While the Manual will help you prepare for the knowledge exam it will be up to you
to practice and develop safe driving habits, not only as you prepare to get your
license but every time you drive.
Please remember to always buckle up, don’t drink and drive, and don’t text and
drive – it really can wait!
Good luck! I wish you many years of safe driving.
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Rhode Island Driver’s Manual – www.dmv.ri.gov
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I.
APPLYING FOR A RHODE ISLAND DRIVER’S LICENSE ....................................................................... 10
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
Before Getting a Limited Instructional Permit .............................................................................. 10
Level One: Limited Instructional Permit ..................................................................................... 11
Level Two: Limited Provisional License ....................................................................................... 12
Level Three: Full Operator’s License .......................................................................................... 13
Summary: Rhode Island’s Graduated Licensing System................................................................ 14
Out-of-State Drivers: Obtaining a Rhode Island Driver’s License .................................................... 15
II.
THE EFFECTS OF DISTRACTIONS, DROWSINESS, AND EMOTIONS ON DRIVING .................................. 17
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
Distracted Driving................................................................................................................... 17
Preventing and Managing Distractions ....................................................................................... 19
Drowsy Driving ...................................................................................................................... 20
Emotions ............................................................................................................................... 22
Aggressive Driving and Road Rage ............................................................................................ 23
Guidelines to Controlling Emotions ............................................................................................ 23
Preventive Aggressive Driving and Road Rage............................................................................. 24
Responding to Aggressive Driving and Road Rage ....................................................................... 24
III.
BASIC DRIVING SKILLS AND SAFETY RULES .................................................................................. 25
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
I.
J.
K.
L.
M.
N.
IV.
SIGNALS AND ROADWAY MARKINGS ............................................................................................. 37
A.
B.
C.
D.
V.
Before Starting the Engine ....................................................................................................... 25
Rhode Island Safety Belt/Child Restraint Law .............................................................................. 25
Stopping Your Vehicle ............................................................................................................. 27
How to Turn .......................................................................................................................... 28
Turnabouts ............................................................................................................................ 29
Stopping and Parking .............................................................................................................. 31
Starting on a Hill .................................................................................................................... 32
Starting from the Curb or Making a Safe Lane Change ................................................................. 32
Entering a Roadway from a Private Road or Driveway .................................................................. 33
Passing Another Vehicle........................................................................................................... 33
Proper Backing Procedures....................................................................................................... 33
Freeway Driving ..................................................................................................................... 34
Safe Driving on the Highway .................................................................................................... 35
Cellular Phone Usage .............................................................................................................. 35
Signals ................................................................................................................................. 37
Roadway Markings .................................................................................................................. 37
Rotary/Roundabout Diagram .................................................................................................... 39
Traffic Lights/Signals............................................................................................................... 40
DRIVING EMERGENCIES .............................................................................................................. 42
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
I.
J.
K.
L.
How to Avoid Skidding ............................................................................................................ 42
How to Control a Vehicle in a Skid............................................................................................. 42
Total Brake Failure ................................................................................................................. 42
Blowout or Flat Tire ................................................................................................................ 42
Stuck Accelerator ................................................................................................................... 43
Engine Failure ........................................................................................................................ 43
Off Road Recovery .................................................................................................................. 43
Threat of a Head-On Collision ................................................................................................... 43
Threat of a Side-Impact Collision .............................................................................................. 44
Threat of a Rear-End Collision .................................................................................................. 44
Headlight Failure .................................................................................................................... 44
Vehicle Stalls on Railroad Tracks ............................................................................................... 44
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Rhode Island Driver’s Manual – www.dmv.ri.gov
M.
N.
O.
P.
VI.
Vehicle
Vehicle
Driving
Carbon
Catches Fire ................................................................................................................ 45
in Water ..................................................................................................................... 45
in Inclement Weather ................................................................................................... 45
Monoxide Poisoning...................................................................................................... 45
MOTORCYCLES........................................................................................................................... 46
VII. SYSTEMS FOR SAFE, COURTEOUS, AND DEFENSIVE DRIVING .......................................................... 47
A.
B.
C.
The Three (3) Second Rule – Following Distance ......................................................................... 48
The Stopping Rule .................................................................................................................. 48
Lane Positions ........................................................................................................................ 48
VIII. SHARING THE ROAD SAFELY ...................................................................................................... 49
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
Sharing the Road with Large Trucks .......................................................................................... 49
Night Driving ......................................................................................................................... 49
Pedestrians............................................................................................................................ 50
Blind Pedestrians .................................................................................................................... 50
School Buses ......................................................................................................................... 51
Bicycle Riders ........................................................................................................................ 51
Aggressive Driving .................................................................................................................. 53
IX.
LAWS YOU MUST KNOW .............................................................................................................. 55
X.
DRINKING AND DRIVING ............................................................................................................. 57
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
XI.
A.
B.
C.
D.
Effects of Alcohol and Other Drugs on the Body .......................................................................... 57
Blood Alcohol Concentration ..................................................................................................... 58
Implied Consent ..................................................................................................................... 58
Refusal to Take the Breathalyzer Test ........................................................................................ 58
Penalties ............................................................................................................................... 59
IN CASE OF A COLLISION ............................................................................................................ 62
What to Do After a Collision ..................................................................................................... 62
What to Report If You Have a Collision....................................................................................... 62
Common Causes of Collision..................................................................................................... 63
Violations Resulting from a Collision .......................................................................................... 63
XII. WHEN STOPPED BY POLICE ......................................................................................................... 64
XIII. EQUIPMENT YOU MUST INSPECT! ................................................................................................. 65
XIV. ORGAN AND TISSUE DONOR PROGRAM ......................................................................................... 66
XV. PASSING YOUR ROAD TEST ......................................................................................................... 67
XVI. ONE FINAL WORD....................................................................................................................... 68
XVII. APPENDICES ............................................................................................................................. 69
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
Miscellaneous Motor Vehicle Laws ............................................................................................. 69
Reserved .............................................................................................................................. 69
Construction and Work Zone Safety Requirements ...................................................................... 71
Direction to CCRI.................................................................................................................... 72
Driver Education Completion Certificates .................................................................................... 72
Summary of DMV Transactions (“How To”) ................................................................................. 73
Identification Requirements and Acceptable Documents ............................................................... 74
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Rhode Island Driver’s Manual – www.dmv.ri.gov
I. Applying for a Rhode Island Driver’s License
Rhode Island has a graduated licensing system for persons under age eighteen (18) wishing to drive a motor
vehicle. The three levels of the graduated licensing system are: limited instructional permit, limited
provisional license and full operator’s license. They are described below.
A. Before Getting a Limited Instructional Permit
What do I do first if I want to get my Limited Instructional Permit?
If you are between the ages of sixteen (16) and eighteen (18), there are two (2) requirements you must
complete before you can get your Limited Instructional Permit.
First: You must pass an accredited thirty-three (33) hour classroom driver education class.
Second: You must pass a computerized test administered by the Division of Motor Vehicles (“DMV”).
If you are over age eighteen (18), you are not required to attend the classroom course, but you must take the
computerized test.
How do I enroll in a driver education class?
Contact the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) at 825-1214 or go on line at: www.ccri.edu/cwce. Click
on Rhode Island Driver Education Program for information about locations or dates and times of classes. For
your convenience, a registration form is available to be downloaded. You may register for class by: walking into
any CCRI location (see Appendix D for CCRI locations), mailing in an application. The fee for Driver Education
classes is $85.001. You will be required to bring the following items to the first day of class: proof of identity and
age (birth certificate, state issued identification card, baptismal certificate, passport, resident alien card, etc.).
Photocopies of these documents are not acceptable.
Can I take the driver education course before the age of 16?
Although you cannot obtain a Limited Instructional Permit from the DMV until you are sixteen (16), you are
eligible to register for a driver education class when you are between fifteen (15) and eighteen (18) years of age,
provided you will be at least fifteen years and ten (10) months old when the class begins.
Who must take the test?
All applicants who take the thirty-three (33) hour driver education course with CCRI take the examination
through CCRI. Applicants must successfully complete the course and pass the test to apply for their Limited
Instructional Permit.
Other first time applicants (and those who fail CCRI’s computerized test) must take the examination at the main
office of the DMV in Cranston. The computerized test has a 90-minute maximum, but usually takes 20-30
minutes to complete. No appointment is necessary. Licensed applicants from other states are exempt from
taking the test, but must turn in their out-of-state licenses for cancellation.
Applicants holding active licenses from foreign countries may retain their foreign country license but must take
the examination as well as a driving test.
How do I prepare for the test?
The computerized test questions are based on the motor vehicle laws and the rules of the road. Applicants
should study this manual to prepare for the test. The test is available in other languages upon request.
1
CCRI is a state supported agency and therefore, fees are subject to change.
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Rhode Island Driver’s Manual – www.dmv.ri.gov
B. Level One: Limited Instructional Permit
How do I get my Limited Instructional Permit?
The Limited Instructional Permit is a preliminary license for persons learning to drive who have passed the
computerized test.
You may apply for a Limited Instructional Permit at the DMV. Applicants for permits must show:
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A certified birth certificate, an active passport, Rhode Island/government identification card, certified
baptismal certificate, or a resident alien card (photocopies are not acceptable);
A driver education certificate of completion of thirty-three (33) hours (if you are under eighteen (18)
years of age);
Original social security card (not a copy); no laminated cards
$12.50 cash, check (no third party checks accepted), or money order;
Proof of Rhode Island residency;
Application for Instructional Permit;
Parent, legal guardian (court documentation must be presented), licensed foster parent (DCYF
documentation must be presented), or adult spouse must accompany you to the DMV. This adult person
must be a resident of Rhode Island and qualified to be a supervising driver (as described below). NOTE:
A parent who does not hold a valid Rhode Island license can sign the application for a child who is under
eighteen (18) years old, but must be seated in the back seat during practice driving.
See Appendix G (Identification Requirements and Acceptable Documents) for detailed information about which
documents are required and what types of documents are acceptable.
A supervising driver must be a licensed driver who has been licensed to drive for at least five (5) years and must
be twenty-one (21) years of age or older.
All applicants must take a vision test. If you normally wear contact lenses or corrective lenses to see at a
distance, you must wear them at the time of your vision test. Your vision must be at least 20/40 with corrected
lenses.
The application of any person under the age of eighteen (18) years for a limited instruction permit, a limited
provisional license, or a full operator's license shall be signed and verified, before a person authorized to
administer oaths, by one or more of the following individuals: the father, mother, guardian, adult husband or
wife, or licensed foster parent, who is a resident of this state and qualified to be a supervising driver pursuant to
31-10-6.1. In the event there is no parent, who meets these requirements, then by another responsible adult
who is willing to assume the obligation imposed under 31-10-1 - 31-10-33 upon a person signing the application
of a minor.
What does a Limited Instructional Permit allow me to do?
With a Limited Instructional Permit, you can practice driving under the supervision of a properly licensed driver
who has held a license for at least five (5) years and is twenty-one (21) years of age or older. The licensed
driver must be sitting beside you at all times and be ready to take control of the vehicle in an emergency. The
licensed driver is legally responsible for any driving violation you may commit. You must wear a safety belt as
required by law unless you provide the DMV with a physician’s letter indicating you cannot wear a safety belt for
medical reasons. ALL passengers must wear a safety belt or be in a child restraint system as required by law.
A driver is more apt to perform the way they practice. Learning the correct way to drive from the beginning will
assist you in driving safely on a daily basis. Learning only from a family member or close friend may introduce
you to bad habits that the family member or friend may have learned or adapted on his or her own. You should
drive with as many different supervising drivers as possible to gain as much experience as possible.
How long must I drive with a Limited Instructional Permit?
You must hold a Limited Instructional Permit for at least six (6) months before you can take a Rhode Island DMV
road test. If your permit expires before you have passed the driving test, you must take the computerized test
again OR be re-certified by CCRI and obtain a new Limited Instructional Permit.
How long is a Limited Instructional Permit valid?
The permit is valid for one (1) year OR until you reach the age of eighteen (18), whichever comes first. A Permit
may be extended if satisfactory evidence of a hardship is presented to the DMV.
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Rhode Island Driver’s Manual – www.dmv.ri.gov
If you reach the age of eighteen (18) before having a Limited Instructional Permit for one (1) year, you may
apply for a Full Operator’s License.
C. Level Two: Limited Provisional License
When can I get a Limited Provisional License?
In order to get this license, you must:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Have held for at least six (6) months a Limited Instructional Permit issued by the DMV.
Not have been convicted of a motor vehicle moving violation or a safety belt infraction during the previous
six (6) months.
Have passed the driving test administered by the DMV.
Present a statement signed by a parent or guardian stating that you have completed a minimum of fifty (50)
hours of driving experience with a supervising driver with ten (10) of those hours at night.
What is the driving test?
An applicant for a Limited Provisional License or a first license must pass a driving test administered by a DMV
examiner. You must provide the automobile to be used in the test. It must be a vehicle registered in Rhode
Island and the registered owner must be present in the vehicle. If the owner is not present, a notarized letter
from the owner giving permission to use the vehicle for this purpose must be presented to the DMV examiner.
In addition, the vehicle must be actively inspected and insured.
How do I apply for the driving test?
Once a Limited Instructional Permit is issued, you should begin practicing your driving. Be sure to schedule your
road test with the DMV before the one (1) year Limited Instructional Permit expires. Call or visit the main office
of the DMV (401-462-5808) or one of the branch offices to schedule your driving test.
What is covered on the driving test?
The test includes pre-driving procedures, driving in traffic, parking, making proper turns and other common
driving experiences. If you fail the driving test, you must reschedule your test and take it again.
The following are reasons for immediate failure of a driving test:
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Leaving the designated roadway (driving on the sidewalk, leaving the laned roadway or leaving the lane
of travel, and driving in safety zone)
Any “moving” violation
Lack of cooperation with the License Examiner
Collision or contact with any other object
Who must take the driving test?
All first time applicants must take the driving test. Persons with a valid driver’s license from another state are
not required to take the driving test.
Preparing for the Driving Test
All driving exam instructions and directions will be in English. To assist you, there is a translated
vocabulary list (Spanish and Portuguese only) of common words and instructions used during the
driving exam. The list is available on the Rhode Island DMV website, www.dmv.ri.gov and at any of
the Rhode Island DMV locations.
The following is a checklist of documentation and vehicle requirements that must be met prior to performing a
road test. Please take the time to review this list and check the vehicle to be used for compliance. If you have
any questions feel free to contact the DMV Road Test Office at (401) 462-5750 prior to arrival in order to avoid
any possible setbacks or complications.
A parent, legal guardian or instructor who qualifies as a supervising driver must be present at the time of the
driving test.
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Rhode Island Driver’s Manual – www.dmv.ri.gov
At the time of the driving test (road test), permittees under the age of 18 should have $12.50 cash, check or
money order, to pay for the issuance of a first license. Permittees over 18 years of age should have cash, check
or money order in the amount of $27.50.
DOCUMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DRIVING TEST
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‰
Original permit – photocopies are not acceptable.
Signed and notarized affidavit of 50 hours driving experience required for all drivers under 18 years of age.
License of the supervising driver (out-of-state license is acceptable).
Notarized letter allowing use of vehicle when registered owner is not present (where applicable).
Notarized letter from the owner/president of a corporation acknowledging use of a corporate vehicle, if being
used for the driving test (where applicable).
VEHICLE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DRIVING TEST
‰ Vehicle should have a center emergency brake.
‰ Proof of valid Rhode Island registration.
Two Exceptions:
1.
2.
Valid military ID is required if the vehicle is registered to a family member of a military person or the military
person is stationed in Rhode Island.
Driving school with a valid out-of-state registration must have current RI Financial Responsibility Insurance
Certificate (GU-1338b) on file with the RI DMV. A copy of this form must also be presented to the Examiner
at the Road Test site.
‰ Proof of valid Rhode Island insurance – identification card or photocopies are acceptable. Vehicle owner
must be listed on the card.
‰ Leased vehicles must show proof of lessee.
‰ Valid inspection sticker (Exception: vehicles that are less than 2 years old or 24,000 miles or less, whichever
comes first).
‰ No rental vehicles allowed for the driving test.
‰ No pets allowed in vehicles used for the driving test.
‰ A Driving Test Examiner will conduct a vehicle safety inspection prior to the driving exam.
The following is part of the safety inspection:
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Brake lights
Directional lights
Headlights
Hazard lights
Tires
Legal tint only (after manufacture tint must have proper certification).
If you do not bring all required documentation, or if your vehicle is deemed unsafe for the road test,
you will be required to reschedule – you may not leave the road test area to secure missing
documentation and return.
When taking your road test, you should drive a car that you are familiar with. You must be fully familiar with all
the controls of the vehicle without having to look for them. If you take your road test in the rain you should
know beforehand where the controls for the windshield wipers and the headlights are and how to adjust them.
Likewise, you should know where the button for the hazard lights is located without looking or having it pointed
out to you. The hazard light button is usually indicated by a red or white triangle and it normally located on top
of the steering column or in the center of the dash.
Once I pass the driving test, what’s next?
You must go to the DMV to get your Limited Provisional License after you have passed your driving test. You
must do this before your Limited Instructional Permit expires. If you are under eighteen (18), a parent,
guardian, licensed foster parent or adult spouse must accompany you. In the event there is not a person who
meets these requirements, then you may bring with you a responsible adult who is willing to assume the legal
obligation of a person signing the application of a minor under age eighteen (18). In all cases, the person must
reside in Rhode Island and qualify to be a supervising driver, that is, a driver who has been licensed to drive for
at least five (5) years and twenty-one (21) years of age or older.
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Rhode Island Driver’s Manual – www.dmv.ri.gov
What if I fail the driving test?
If you fail your driving test, you must call or visit a DMV office to schedule another driving test. You will not be
allowed to re-take the test immediately. You must wait at least 30 days before your next appointment. If an
appointment is not available before your permit expires, you may need to take the written test again and obtain
a new permit. You are not eligible to take the written test until your present permit has expired.
What is the fee for a Limited Provisional License?
The fee is $12.50. This fee is subject to change through statute. Please check with the DMV to verify this fee.
What are the conditions of a Limited Provisional License?
A PERSON WITH A LIMITED PROVISIONAL LICENSE
CANNOT DRIVE BY THEMSELVES BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 1:00AM AND 5:00AM.
With a provisional license in your possession, you can drive a motor vehicle under certain conditions:
With supervision:
1.
2.
At any time.
A supervising driver must be seated beside you while the vehicle is in motion.
Without supervision in any of the following circumstances:
1.
2.
3.
Between 5:00am and 1:00am.
When driving to or from work.
When driving to or from any activity of a volunteer fire department, volunteer rescue squad, or volunteer
emergency medical service if the driver is a member of such organization.
In both cases, everyone in the vehicle must be properly fastened by a safety belt or child restraint system at all
times.
This license expires on your eighteenth (18th) birthday.
During the first twelve (12) months of a limited provisional license no more than one (1) passenger
younger than twenty-one (21) years of age is allowed in the vehicle. Immediate family and
household members are exempt from this rule.
D. Level Three: Full Operator’s License
When can I get my Full Operator’s License?
In order to get your full operator’s license, you must:
1.
2.
3.
Be at least seventeen (17) years, six (6) months old.
Have held for at least twelve (12) months a Limited Provisional License issued by the DMV.
Have not been convicted of a motor vehicle moving violation or safety belt infraction during the previous six
(6) months.
Are there any restrictions for the Full Operator’s License?
With a Full Operator’s License, you may drive without restrictions concerning time of driving and supervision.
You are, of course, still required to follow all the other rules of the road, including those applying to safety belts
and child restraint systems.
What is the fee for a driver’s license?
First license applicants receive a license valid for a “two-birthday” period, at a fee of $27.50 (if under 18) or
$39.50 (if over 18.) After the “two-birthday” license expires, you may apply to renew your license for five years
at a cost of $62.50. These fees are subject to change through statute. Please check with the DMV to verify
these fees.
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What happens if my license is suspended?
You will be required to turn in your license in person to the Operator Control Section or the Accident Section (if
the order is the result of a collision) of the DMV. The suspension period does not begin until your license
has been surrendered or forwarded to the DMV. Failure to comply will affect the reinstatement of your
license. A license suspension will affect you in the following ways:
1.
You cannot legally drive a motor vehicle in Rhode Island or any other state for any reason during the
suspension period.
2. Your motor vehicle violations become a matter of public record. They are open to public inspection by
insurance companies and other interested parties. Your insurance rates may increase significantly.
E. Summary: Rhode Island’s Graduated Licensing System
The following is a summary of the three previously described levels of licensing.
To receive a Level 1: LIMITED INSTRUCTIONAL PERMIT, you must:
1.
2.
3.
Be sixteen (16) to eighteen (18) years of age.
Successfully complete the Rhode Island Driver Education thirty-three (33) hour class administered by CCRI
or its equivalent.
Apply for a permit at the DMV in the company of a parent, guardian, adult spouse, or licensed foster parent.
At Level 1, you are permitted to drive a motor vehicle under the following conditions:
1.
2.
The permit holder must be in possession of the permit.
A supervising driver must be seated beside the permit holder in the front seat of the vehicle when it is in
motion (a supervising driver is defined as a properly licensed driver who has held a license for at least five
(5) years and is over twenty-one (21) years old.
3. No person other than the supervising driver is located in the front seat of automobile.
4. Every person occupying the vehicle is properly fastened by a seat belt or child restraint system.
To receive a Level 2: LIMITED PROVISIONAL LICENSE, you must:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Have held a limited instructional permit for at least six (6) months without any conviction of motor vehicle
moving violations or seat belt infractions during the previous six (6) months.
Pass the motor vehicle road test administered by the DMV. If the owner of the vehicle used for the road test
is not present, a notarized letter from the owner giving permission to use the vehicle for this purpose must
be presented to the DMV examiner. In addition, the vehicle must be actively inspected and insured.
Apply for the license at the DMV in the company of a parent, guardian, adult spouse, licensed foster parent,
or driving instructor.
Must complete fifty (50) hours of supervised driving with a qualified supervising driver. The permitee must
complete ten (10) of those hours at night.
At Level 2, you are permitted to drive a motor vehicle under the following conditions:
1.
2.
The license holder must be in possession of the Limited Provisional License.
At any time with a supervising driver seated beside the provisional license holder in the front seat of the
vehicle when it is in motion.
3. Without supervision in any of the following circumstances: from 5:00 AM to 1:00 AM, when driving to or
from work, or when driving to or from an activity of a volunteer fire department, rescue squad or emergency
medical service (if the driver is a member of such organization).
4. Every person occupying the vehicle is properly fastened by a safety belt or child restraint system.
5. During the first twelve (12) months of the limited provisional license, no more than one (1) licensed
passenger younger than twenty-one (21) years of age is allowed in the vehicle. Immediate family/household
members are exempt from this rule.
To receive a Level 3: FULL OPERATOR’S LICENSE you must:
1.
2.
Be between seventeen (17) years, six (6) months and eighteen (18) years of age.
Have held a Limited Provisional License for at least twelve (12) months and be free of any convictions for
motor vehicle moving violation or safety belt infraction for the previous six (6) months.
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3.
4.
Apply for this license in the company of a parent, guardian, adult spouse, or licensed foster parent.
At Level 3, you may drive a motor vehicle without Level 1 and 2 restrictions concerning time of driving,
supervision and passenger limitations.
F. Out-of-State Drivers: Obtaining a Rhode Island Driver’s License
If you have a valid driver’s license in another state, and you have just moved to Rhode Island, you can apply to
have your license transferred to a Rhode Island Driver’s License. If your license to operate a motor vehicle is
suspended in any other state, you must address this issue with that state prior to applying for a Rhode Island
license. If your out-of-state license is currently valid or has not been expired for more than one (1) year, you
will not be required to take a computerized test or a road test.
If you have previously held a Rhode Island license, and it has not been expired for more than three (3) years,
your previous Rhode Island license number will be reissued. If your Rhode Island license has been expired for
more than three (3) years, you will be issued a new license number.
Any restrictions or endorsements you may have had on your out-of-state license (for example, a motorcycle
endorsement) will be transferred to your new Rhode Island license with an equivalent restriction/endorsement.
In order to apply for an out-of-state transfer, you must complete and submit an Application for First License. You
must also submit the required documents, as stated in G, Identification Requirements and Acceptable
Documents. Please be sure that you have acceptable proof of Rhode Island residency before applying to transfer
your license. Upon applying for the transfer, you must also present and surrender your out-of-state license.
The fee to transfer your license is $44.50. The license will be valid for up to two years, expiring on your
birthday. At that time you may renew your license for five (5) years.
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II. The Effects of Distractions, Drowsiness, and
Emotions on Driving
A. Distracted Driving
Driving requires your full attention.
Alcohol and other drugs are not the only factors that can cause a driver to be impaired. Driver distraction and
inattention are also major causes of impairment, resulting in thousands of collisions and deaths each year.
Consider these facts:
x
x
x
x
x
An estimated 80 percent of collisions involve some form of driver inattention.
Each year, driver inattention is a factor in more than 1 million crashes in North America.
Looking away from the path of travel for two or more seconds doubles the likelihood of a crash.
Young drivers are especially susceptible to becoming distracted while driving.
Every state has legislation under which drivers can be charged for inattentive driving.
Inattention and distraction.
Distraction results when a situation, event or person draws a driver’s
focus away from driving. Inattention, on the other hand, occurs when a
driver’s attention drifts away from driving without having been
influenced by a situation, event or person. Both can result in the same
outcome — a collision. When you drive, you are already multitasking
— do not make it more difficult by performing additional tasks while
behind the wheel.
Effects of distraction.
It does not take long to become distracted, and a lot can happen in a second or two. Distractions can affect
driving performance in at least three ways:
1.
2.
3.
Slowed perception. Distracted driving may cause drivers to be delayed in perceiving or completely fail to
perceive an important traffic event. For example, a distracted driver may fail to perceive another vehicle
pulling out of a parking lot directly into his or her path of travel.
Delayed decision-making. Distraction can cause a driver’s decision-making process to be delayed, or
cause a driver to choose an action inappropriate for the situation at hand. For example, a distracted driver
may not decide quickly enough on a specific course of action to avoid a collision.
Improper action. Once drivers make a decision, they need to execute the chosen action. Distraction can
cause drivers to be delayed in taking the intended action, or to make incorrect inputs to the steering,
accelerator or brakes. For example, a distracted driver who decides to change direction in response to
sudden blockage of the lane ahead may turn the steering wheel too slowly or too late to avoid a collision.
Types of distractions.
Some are more obvious than others. When windshield wipers were first introduced on vehicles at the beginning
of the last century they were considered a distraction. Today, we would not drive without them. There are
many causes of distraction, all with the potential to increase risk.
Distractions can be physical or mental in nature and are often a combination of both. A physical distraction is one
that causes a driver to take his or her hands off the wheel or eyes off the road, such as reaching for an object.
Mental distractions are activities that take the driver’s mind away from the road, such as engaging in
conversation with a passenger or thinking about something that happened during the day. Both increase the risk
of a collision substantially. When physical and mental distractions are combined, there is an even greater chance
a crash could happen.
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Distractions inside the vehicle.
There are many potential causes of distractions related to events and objects inside the vehicle. Some of these
include:
x
x
x
x
Passengers: Other occupants’ behavior can be very distracting to the driver, especially for young
drivers. Research shows that for each additional passenger, risk of a collision increases dramatically.
Specifically, for teen drivers, the addition of just one teen passenger doubles the likelihood of
experiencing a fatal crash. With two or more teen passengers, the risk of a fatal crash jumps by 300
percent.
Adjusting the radio: Many young drivers enjoy listening to the radio while driving. However, research
shows that each time a driver adjusts the radio, the risk of a collision increases. Adjustments to the radio
could include changing a CD, selecting a song from an MP3 player or changing the radio station. All of
these functions involve taking hands off the steering wheel, eyes off the road, or both.
Reaching for a moving loose object: Similarly, research shows that teens are especially vulnerable to
collisions when reaching for a loose object. This frequently involves taking eyes off the road.
Using a cellular phone: Using a cellular (cell) phone while driving can be extremely risky. While using
a cell phone might seem simple, it requires significant concentration that takes attention away from the
driving task. It is estimated that cell phone use accounts for approximately 2,600 motor vehicle fatalities
and 300,000 collisions each year. Overall risk of a collision while using a cell phone increases by 400
percent.
Young drivers are especially vulnerable to becoming distracted while using a cell phone. Additionally, modern cell
phones are capable of far more than spoken communication; many can perform navigational functions, access
the Internet, share photos and send and receive text messages. As such, today’s cell phones hold even more
potential for increased risk while driving.
Dialing: While it may not take long to dial a phone number, doing so may require a driver to remove one hand
from the steering wheel and look down at the phone’s keypad.
Talking and listening: Holding a conversation requires mental effort, which diverts attention away from driving.
One study indicated that talking on a cell phone was over four times more likely to cause a near crash than the
next-most frequent cause of distraction. Drivers talking on cell phones frequently vary their speed and weave
along the roadway.
Hand-held versus hands-free: Some drivers choose to use a headset that eliminates the need to physically hold
a cell phone. While a hands-free device may initially appear to be less distracting, research indicates no
differences in risk between the two modes. Both methods of cell phone use are fully capable of diverting a
driver’s attention so much that a collision results.
Text messaging: Text messaging is the common term for sending
short (160 or fewer characters) text messages from cell phones.
Faster than email, cell phone users receive incoming text messages
almost immediately after they are sent. Evidence suggests that
text messaging is even riskier than talking on a cell phone, as text
messaging often requires the driver to both look at the phone and
manipulate the keypad with one’s hands.
x
x
Navigating: Every driver has a destination, and driving an unfamiliar route can be challenging enough
without being distracted. Using a map while driving can cause distraction, not to mention significant
reductions in visibility. Even drivers who use an electronic navigation system can become distracted.
Other internal distractions: Additional causes of distractions inside the vehicle include eating,
drinking, grooming, adjusting vehicle controls such as climate systems, and attending to pets.
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Distractions outside the vehicle.
Distractions can also be caused by objects, people and events outside the vehicle. These could include:
x
x
x
x
x
x
Crash scenes: It can be tempting to reduce speed and divert attention to a nearby crash scene.
Sometimes this is referred to as “rubbernecking.”
Emergency vehicles: Emergency vehicles are often present at crash scenes or to deliver roadside
assistance. With their flashing lights and other warning devices, they can easily divert a driver’s eyes
from the path of travel.
Objects: There are many objects outside the vehicle that could compete for a driver’s attention,
including other vehicles, pedestrians, road debris, collisions and billboards and other signs. Some signs
may electronically alternate among different messages, and thus be even more likely to catch a driver’s
eye. Construction zones may contain unusual vehicles or machinery that can also divert a driver’s
attention.
Animals: On certain types of roadways, animals are more likely to cross into the path of travel. Often,
animals move very quickly onto the roadway, surprising the unwary driver. Even if there is no risk of
colliding with an animal, it may still draw a driver’s attention away from the roadway.
Other roadway users: Although full-size motor vehicles are the most common users of the roadway,
other users could attract a driver’s attention. These could include horse-drawn buggies, motorcycles,
scooters, bicycles and pedestrians.
Eyes off the road: Regardless of the cause of distraction, drivers can be tempted to look away from the
roadway. While this might appear harmless, it is actually very risky. When a driver looks away from the
roadway for two or more seconds, the risk of a collision doubles. The bottom line: regardless of what
may be occurring that could draw your attention and vision away from the road, keep your eyes on your
intended path of travel.
B. Preventing and Managing Distractions
Preventing and managing distractions.
The key to preventing becoming distracted is to prepare as much as possible before you drive. With a little
forethought, you can anticipate potential distractions and address them before getting behind the wheel.
Despite your best efforts, distractions can arise while driving. Handling distractions effectively is critical to
minimizing your risk. Techniques for preventing and managing distractions include:
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Familiarize yourself with your vehicle’s features and equipment, before you get behind the wheel.
Preset radio stations, MP3 devices, and climate control.
Secure items that may move around when the car is in motion.
Do not text message, access the internet, watch video, play video games, search MP3 devices, or use
any other distracting technology while driving.
Avoid smoking, eating, drinking and reading while driving.
Do your personal grooming at home — not in the car.
Review maps and driving directions before hitting the road.
Pull safely off the road and out of traffic to deal with children.
Monitor traffic conditions before engaging in activities that could divert attention away from driving.
Ask a passenger to help you with activities that may be distracting.
Recognize driving requires your full attention. If you find your mind wandering, remind yourself to stay
focused on the road.
Cell Phones.
The first tip is: Do not use a cellular phone while driving. But if you must:
x
x
Familiarize yourself with the features of your cell phone before you get behind the wheel.
Use message-taking functions and return calls when you are stopped at a safe location.
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x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Use the cell phone only when absolutely necessary. Limit casual conversations to times when you are not
operating a motor vehicle.
Plan your conversation in advance, and keep it short — especially in hazardous conditions such as bad
weather or heavy traffic.
Let the person you are speaking with know you are driving.
Do not engage in emotional conversations while driving. Pull off the road to a safe spot before continuing
this type of conversation.
Do not combine distracting activities such as talking on your cell phone while driving, eating and
adjusting the audio system.
Ask a passenger in the car to place the call for you and, if possible, speak in your place.
Secure your phone in the car so that it does not become a projectile in a crash.
Remember, driving is a full-time job.
You have learned it involves more than controlling the vehicle and keeping it on the road. Driving involves
searching where you plan to go, identifying problems and potential conflicts, making decisions on what you
perceive, judging what may occur and carrying out appropriate actions. To do all of this competently and safely
you must stay focused and avoid distractions. When you do anything else while you are driving, you increase risk
to yourself and others.
C. Drowsy Driving
Drowsiness.
Drowsiness while driving is a condition that affects everyone at one time or another. As drivers become tired,
their ability to drive becomes impaired, and the risk of a collision rises. Driving while drowsy is dangerous
because your senses and abilities become impaired. You may not see objects clearly, or in a timely manner.
You may miss critical information — signs, lights and sounds. It may also take you longer to process the
information you take in or to make decisions in potential high-risk
situations. You may misjudge speed and distances. In sum, drowsiness can affect every process involved in
safe driving.
The risks.
Drowsy driving is now recognized as one of the leading causes of traffic collisions. The NHTSA conservatively
estimates that 100,000 police-reported crashes each year are the direct result of drowsy driving. This results in
an estimated 1,550 deaths, 71,000 injuries, and $125 billion in monetary losses. These figures may be just the
tip of the iceberg, because it can be challenging to determine with certainty that drowsiness was involved in any
given crash.
Unfortunately, driving while drowsy is not rare. In fact, according to the National Sleep Foundation’s Sleep in
America poll, 60 percent of adult drivers — about 168 million people — say they have driven a vehicle while
feeling drowsy in the past year, and more than one third (36 percent, or 103 million people) admit to having
actually fallen asleep at the wheel! Drivers may experience short bursts of sleep lasting only a few seconds
(microsleeps) or fall asleep for a longer period of time. Either way, the chance of a collision increases
dramatically.
Who is at risk?
Many drivers are at increased risk of becoming drowsy behind the wheel, including:
1.
2.
3.
Drivers on long trips. Drivers could become fatigued while driving on long trips. Some drivers attempt to
drive longer than they should on any given day.
Drivers lacking sleep. Drivers who are sleep deprived are more likely to fall asleep behind the wheel.
According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, people who sleep only six to seven hours a night are
twice as likely to be involved in a drowsy-driving crash as those sleeping eight hours or more. Additionally,
people sleeping fewer than five hours increase their risk of a collision by four to five times.
Drivers with undiagnosed or untreated sleep disorders. Drivers with sleep disorders are more likely to
fall asleep while driving. Untreated disorders such as sleep apnea (stoppage of breathing due to soft-tissue
blockage of the airway), narcolepsy (the inability to remain awake) and others can cause serious sleep
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4.
5.
6.
7.
disruption and uncontrolled nodding or falling asleep at the wheel. If you suffer frequent daytime sleepiness,
often have difficulty sleeping at night, and/or snore loudly every night, consult your physician or a local sleep
disorder center for diagnosis and treatment.
Drivers on the road during the body’s natural “low” times. Each person’s alertness, energy and sleep
likelihood rises and falls throughout the day. This is referred to as the body’s “circadian rhythm,” the pattern
of energy throughout a 24-hour period. Most people experience “lows” between approximately midnight and
6 am, and again between approximately 2 to 4 pm.
Drivers on the road after extended wakefulness. Remaining awake for extended periods of time can
significantly increase drowsiness and its impact on driving ability. Research shows that being awake for 18
hours produces impairment approximately equal to a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .05 percent. After
24 hours awake, the impairment rises to that roughly equal to a BAC of .10 percent. Remember that fatigue
can set in after a long day’s work, an outing at the beach or any other activity.
Young drivers. Drivers under age 30 are involved in over two-thirds of all fall-asleep crashes. Additionally,
these drivers are four times more likely to experience a sleep related crash than drivers age 30 and older.
Shift workers. Drivers who work late-night or early-morning shifts are more likely to fall asleep while
driving. Working the night shift increases collision risk by nearly six times. Rotating-shift workers and
people working more than 60 hours a week need to be particularly careful.
Other causes of drowsiness.
Emotional stress, illness or boredom can cause drowsiness. Sun glare, a major factor in eyestrain, can also
contribute to fatigue. Overeating, drinking alcoholic beverages or riding in a warm passenger compartment can
all affect the likelihood of becoming drowsy.
Monotony.
Driving on an empty, straight road with no signals or billboards may seem like a simple task. Yet there is often
not enough stimulation in the environment to keep you mentally alert. Compound this with the engine’s
constant purr, the hum of the tires, the tendency to fix your eyes on a single point ahead and the general
monotony of easy vehicle operation, and mental alertness drops. Under such circumstances, a driver is much
more likely to doze off than when on a more difficult and demanding road.
How can you tell if you are at risk of becoming drowsy?
There is no guarantee that you will recognize when you are becoming tired behind the wheel. One half of drivers
who crashed after falling asleep did not detect any signs of drowsiness before the crash. Be aware that there
may be no warning before falling asleep, but recognize any warning signs that you may detect, including:
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Difficulty focusing, frequent blinking or heavy eyelids.
Yawning repeatedly or rubbing your eyes.
Daydreaming; wandering/disconnected thoughts.
Trouble remembering the last few miles driven; missing exits or traffic signs.
Trouble keeping your head up.
Drifting from your lane, following too closely or hitting a shoulder rumble strip.
Feeling restless and irritable.
Preventing drowsiness.
To help prevent becoming drowsy, take the following steps before driving:
x
x
x
x
Get a good night’s sleep. While this varies from individual to individual, sleep experts recommend
between 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night for adults and 8½ to 9½ hours for teens.
Prepare your route carefully to identify total distance, stopping points and other logistic considerations.
Plan to drive long trips with a companion. Passengers can help look for early warning signs of fatigue or
take over driving when needed. At least one passenger should stay awake to talk to the driver.
Avoid medications (over-the-counter and prescribed) that cause drowsiness or otherwise impair
performance.
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Once you are on the road.
To help maintain your alertness while driving:
x
x
x
x
x
Protect yourself from glare and eyestrain with sunglasses.
Avoid heavy foods.
Be aware of your physiological down time during the day (circadian rhythm).
Have another person ride with you, and take turns driving.
Take periodic breaks. A good rule of thumb is to stop every 100 miles or every two hours.
On long trips, stopping periodically can temporarily offset fatigue. You should be able to drive a reasonable
distance without difficulty if you stop for at least 10 minutes every two hours or every 100 miles and make
regular stops for fuel, food and restrooms. The problem with long-distance driving is that many people do not
know, or choose to ignore, how much driving is too much. There is no rule to say how far you should drive at
any given time, but no destination is worth gambling with your life. Do not overextend yourself. Determine a
reasonable distance in advance and stop driving when you reach it.
Ineffective actions.
The following actions will not help prevent drowsiness longer than just a few minutes:
x
x
x
x
x
Trying to tough it out.
Playing the radio at high volume.
Driving at a faster or slower speed.
Chewing gum.
Opening the windows.
Rest is the key.
Remember, resting is by far the most effective way to counter drowsiness. It usually is not a good idea to sleep
in a vehicle at the side of the road. Yet there may be times when it is better to pull off than continue driving. If
you must stop along the roadway to rest, follow these practices:
x
x
x
x
x
x
Stop at a roadside area where security is present. If no such facility is available, make sure that you are
as far off the highway as possible.
After dark, find a populated, lighted area.
Give yourself a little outside air, but be sure that windows are closed enough to prevent entry from
outside.
Lock all doors and turn off your engine.
Turn on parking lights and turn off other electrical equipment.
After you rest, if safe to do so, get out of the vehicle and walk a few minutes to be sure that you are
completely awake before you begin to drive again. Keep in mind that sleeping for more than 20 minutes
can make you groggy for at least five minutes after awakening.
D. Emotions
Feelings.
It is natural for us to attach meaning and feelings to things we do. Strong emotions such as fear and anger can
affect the way we perceive and process information. Therefore, emotions can — and do — affect the way we
drive. A major study of driver performance indicates that the most critical factor in a driving record, regardless
of training, is an individual’s self-awareness and ability to interact with other people.
Causes.
Any number of situations may lead to temporary upsets. A person who has just received news of a serious
illness or death of a close friend or family member may be too upset to operate a vehicle safely. What about the
person who has an argument, jumps into a vehicle and drives off, or the person who is excited or disappointed at
the end of a closely played ball game? It is easy to become angry under such circumstances. You also can
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become frustrated or impatient when you wait in long lines of traffic or follow a slowly-moving vehicle along a
winding roadway.
Effects of emotions.
When emotionally upset, a driver’s normal response to common traffic situations can change. Strong emotions
affect our ability to think, reason and make decisions. The upset or emotionally-charged driver may look directly
at a traffic light or stop sign and drive through it. That same person also may follow too closely and pass on hills
or curves. Emotions can draw a driver’s attention away from driving, reduce concentration on the roadway and
impair the ability to process information and take necessary actions. While positive emotions can certainly cause
impairment, negative emotions such as anger may affect driving safety to an even greater degree.
E. Aggressive Driving and Road Rage
Aggressive driving.
Today, many drivers are operating their vehicles aggressively. Aggressive driving occurs when a driver operates
a vehicle in a pushy or bold manner. Exceeding the speed limit, following too closely, failing to obey traffic
controls and making improper turns and maneuvers are all examples of aggressive driving.
Road rage.
Road rage occurs when a driver uses the vehicle or some other weapon to threaten or cause harm to another
roadway user in response to a traffic incident. Road rage is an escalation of emotions generally ignited by
aggressive driving behaviors. Drivers who drive aggressively are more likely to allow their emotions to
overwhelm self-control and engage in road rage. Examples of road rage include throwing objects at a vehicle,
yelling at a specific roadway user and attempting to ram another vehicle.
F. Guidelines to Controlling Emotions
Self-control.
Since strong emotional responses are learned, you also can learn to control them. The following guidelines may
help you keep emotions from unduly affecting your driving abilities:
x
x
x
x
x
Understand your own emotional makeup. Limited self-awareness may be the cause of fear or other
strong emotional responses. The more you know about yourself and why you act a certain way, the
better you can control your actions. If you can predict the emotional responses of other drivers, you can
better prepare your responses.
Identify situations that tend to upset you. People tend to become excited, afraid or angry when
they are faced with threatening situations. If a situation can be handled easily or does not concern you,
it is not likely to lead to your being upset, and you can prepare for it more effectively. Effective trip
planning can prevent numerous problems. Many traffic situations are frustrating because we fail to allow
enough time for trips. In contrast, the pleasure of driving generally increases when friends are along.
Expect other drivers to make mistakes. The more you drive, the more you will realize that all
drivers make mistakes. They may be distracted or inattentive. Other drivers may not have the skill or
knowledge they should have. You need to realize that others’ mistakes may be ones that you have made
or may make in the future.
Emotions are contagious. Quite often, one emotion leads to another. If you yell at another person,
he or she could become angry and take his or her anger out on someone else. That person, in turn, may
get mad and take it out on someone else. This same thing can happen in traffic situations. Realize that
smiles and courtesy can be spread among drivers just as easily as upsets and anger can. If you know
what to expect, you can plan to overcome the errors and upsets of others.
Direct your emotions to actions rather than the individual. It is easy to become angry with
another person or driver without knowing exactly why. Drivers have different goals. Sometimes you are
in a hurry. Remember, however, that other drivers do not know your goals or have anything against
you.
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x
x
x
Delay driving when upset. Most emotional upsets are temporary. If you must drive, wait until the
strength of the emotion has faded so that you are more likely to drive safely and courteously.
Unwind. When an upset occurs while you are driving, find a place to stop and unwind. Take a short
walk. Take a few deep breaths. You might choose such a time to stop for refreshments.
Ask someone else to drive. Emotional upsets such as grief and anxiety may last several days. If you
are depressed, it might be wise to have another person drive. In some cases, it might be best to use
public transportation.
G. Preventing Aggressive Driving and Road Rage
One key to preventing aggressive driving and road rage is to avoid engaging in them yourself and trying not to
give other roadway users cause to become aggressive. These guidelines can help:
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Leave in plenty of time to reach your destination.
Remain calm at all times. Listening to soothing music can help.
Maintain adequate distance between you and the vehicle ahead. Following too closely can easily cause
the driver being followed to become angry.
Avoid changing lanes unnecessarily.
Do not block the passing lane. Except when passing, stay out of the far left lane.
Always use your turn signals before changing lanes.
Be sure you have plenty of room between you and other vehicles.
Avoid using aggressive or offensive hand gestures when communicating with other drivers.
Use your horn sparingly. A couple of short taps may be perceived as less aggressive than one long blast.
Do not park across multiple parking spaces. Be sure not to touch adjacent vehicles either while parking,
or with another vehicle’s doors as you enter or exit your vehicle.
When using high-beam headlights, return to using low-beam headlights as soon as you detect an
oncoming vehicle. Do not drive behind another vehicle with your high-beam headlights on.
If safe to do so, move out of the right-hand lane to allow vehicles entering the roadway to merge with
minimal difficulty.
H. Responding to Aggressive Driving and Road Rage
Unfortunately, sometimes other drivers become aggressive or enraged.
displaying aggressive behaviors toward you, follow these guidelines:
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
If you are confronted by a driver
Do not respond to the other driver. Avoid any escalation of conflict.
Remain calm, and take a deep breath.
Avoid eye contact with the other driver or passengers.
Be tolerant and forgiving — the other driver may be having a really bad day and be looking for a way to
vent anger.
Be polite and courteous, even if the other driver is not. Your behavior may help reduce his or her anger.
Be sure to allow enough room around your vehicle so that you can pull out or around if someone
approaches your vehicle.
Do not get out of your vehicle — it offers protection.
If necessary, contact 911 for assistance.
If necessary, drive to a busy public place where there are witnesses, such as a hospital, fire station or
busy convenience store or gas station. Once there, use your horn to attract others’ attention if needed.
Avoid conflict.
As you drive, your goal is to avoid conflict. Realize that other drivers’ mistakes are not directed at you
personally, so do not take them personally. Be as polite in your driving as you would be in any other social
situation. If another driver challenges you, do not get out of your vehicle. Just as in a crash, your vehicle can
give you protection. Do not lose that protection by getting out. You do not control traffic, but you do control
your reaction to it.
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III. Basic Driving Skills and Safety Rules
A. Before Starting The Engine
Most motorists can drive safely for years by using care, courtesy and caution. Most motor vehicle collisions
are caused by errors of the driver and occur within a few miles of people’s homes. Before entering your
vehicle, check in front and behind the vehicle for objects, animals, or persons in your path. Safe driving starts
before you turn on the engine. Please take the following steps every time you get in your vehicle:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Lock the doors
Adjust the seat
Adjust the inside and outside mirrors
Adjust ventilation
Fasten and adjust your seat belts
Ask passengers to fasten their seat belts
Adjust your feet to the pedals
Adjust the steering wheel
Adjust the head restraint
Adjust your radio/CD/Cassette player
B. Rhode Island Safety Belt/Child Restraint Law
The Seat Belt Use Law is a primary law for all ages, meaning you can be pulled over if anyone is
unbuckled.
Safety Belt Use Law – Rhode Island General Law (“R.I.G.L.”) 31-22-22:
1.
31-22-22 (f): Any operator of a motor vehicle transporting a person eighteen (18) years of age and older in
any seating position of a motor vehicle operated on the roadways, streets or highways of this state shall
ensure that the person be properly wearing a safety belt and/or shoulder harness system, as defined by
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 208.
2. 31-22-22 (g): Any person who is an operator of a motor vehicle shall be properly wearing a safety belt
and/or shoulder harness system as defined by Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 208 while the vehicle is
in operation on any of the roadways, streets, or highways of this state.
3. Vehicle operator is responsible for compliance of sections (f) and (g). The fine for violation of this section is
$40.00 per occupant.
Child Restraint Law – R.I.G.L. 31-22-22:
1.
2.
3.
31-22-22 (a): Any person transporting a child under the age of eight (8), less than fifty-seven (57) inches (4
½ feet tall) in height and less than eighty (80) pounds in a motor vehicle operated on the roadways, streets,
or highways of this state, shall transport the child in any rear seating position of the motor vehicle properly
restrained in a child restraint system approved by the United States Department of Transportation under
Federal Standard 213. If the child is under eight (8) years old but at least fifty-seven (57) inches in height,
or at least eighty (80) pounds the child shall be properly wearing a safety belt and/or shoulder harness
approved by the Department of Transportation pursuant to Federal Standard 208 in any rear seating position
of the motor vehicle.
31-22-22 (b)(1): Any operator of a motor vehicle transporting a child who has attained the age of eight (8)
years but is under eighteen (18) years of age in any seating position within a motor vehicle operated on the
roadways, streets, or highways of the state shall ensure that the passenger is properly wearing a safety belt
and/or shoulder harness system, as defined by Federal Standard 208.
31-22-22 (b)(2): Any operator of a motor vehicle under eighteen (18) years of age shall properly wear a
safety belt and/or shoulder harness system.
Exceptions: Children under age eight (8) years are exempt from being transported in any rear seating position
if:
ƒ
the vehicle has no backseat (i.e. pickup truck, sports car, etc.)
ƒ
all rear seating positions are already being utilized by other children
ƒ
In 31-22-22 (b), as described above, the oldest child should ride in the front seat if the vehicle is
equipped with a passenger side airbag
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4.
Penalty: The fine for a child riding in the front seat or for a child over age seven (7) years not in a seatbelt
is $85.00. A violation for transporting a child not in a child restraint system mandates a court appearance.
Booster Seat/Safety Seat/Safety Belt Use Law – R.I.G.L. 31-22-22:
1. Infants:
ƒ
Birth to at least a minimum of one (1) year old and at least 20 lbs
ƒ
Rear-facing and/or convertible car seat
ƒ
Back seat use only
2. Toddlers:
ƒ
A minimum of one (1) year old and twenty (20) lbs to the car seat manufacturer’s maximum
recommended weight
ƒ
Forward-facing convertible car seat
ƒ
Back seat use only
3. Children under eight (8) years of age:
ƒ
Less than eighty (80) lbs. and/or less than fifty-seven (57) inches
ƒ
Booster seat or safety harness
ƒ
Back seat use only
4. Children under eighteen (18) years of age:
ƒ
Lap/shoulder seat belt
ƒ
Back seat . . . safest place for airbag safety
5. Drivers and passengers eighteen (18) years of age and older:
ƒ
Lap/shoulder seat belt
ƒ
Properly placed low on hips and across middle of chest
6. Does your child need a booster seat?
The five (5) step test: Did you know most children need a booster seat from the age of four (4) to at least
between eight (8) and twelve (12)? If your child is not riding in a booster seat, then take this five (5) step test:
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
Does the child sit all the way back against the vehicle seat?
Do the child’s knees bend comfortably at the edge of the vehicle seat?
Does the shoulder belt come down over the collar bone and the center of the chest?
Is the lap belt on the hips, contacting the pelvis?
Can the child stay seated like this for the entire trip?
IF YOUR ANSWER TO ANY OF THESE QUESTIONS IS ‘NO’, THEN YOUR CHILD
NEEDS A BOOSTER SEAT TO RIDE SAFELY IN THE VEHICLE. BOOSTER SEATS MUST
BE USED WITH A LAP/SHOULDER HARNESS SYSTEM!
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C. Stopping Your Vehicle
Even when road and vehicle conditions are ideal and the driver is perfectly alert, it takes a great distance to stop
a motor vehicle. To stop your vehicle, three (3) things must happen:
1.
2.
3.
You must perceive (recognize) the danger and the need to stop.
Your brain must react to the hazard and tell your foot to step on the brake.
Your foot must move to the brake pedal and operate the brake (braking).
The distance your vehicle travels between the time you recognize the danger and react to it is called your
perception distance. The distance your vehicle travels when you move to step on the brake is called your
reaction distance. After seeing danger, it takes the average driver about ¾ of a second to apply the brake.
The higher the driving speed, the further your vehicle will travel before you are able to apply the brake.
The distance your vehicle travels from the time the brakes are applied to the time that the vehicle is brought to a
stop is called braking distance. Braking distance will vary depending on the conditions of the road. It is
important to realize that on wet or icy roads the braking distance will be much longer. Therefore, when driving
in these conditions, you must drive slower. Oil, rubber, dirt and water combine to make roads especially slippery
when it first starts to rain.
The perception distance plus the reaction distance plus the braking distance equals the total stopping
distance.
In addition, two (2) situations may occur which can prevent you from stopping when you need to:
Velocitizing occurs when you begin to feel that you are going slower than your actual speed. You can avoid this
by varying your speed slightly when driving long distances on the highway. Use care while reducing your speed
as you enter exit ramps.
Hydroplaning occurs when the front tires of your vehicle lose contact with the road surface on a wet road and
you lose steering capability. Guard against hydroplaning by keeping tire pressure inflated to manufacturer’s
recommended standard, reducing speed, and being careful while driving in the rain. Avoid areas where water
pools.
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D. How To Turn
Making proper turns from proper lanes:
One-sixth (1/6) of all crashes happen when one vehicle is turning left. Most of these would not
happen if the driver made the turn properly. Studies have shown that a motorist’s greatest risk of a
motor vehicle collision occurs at an intersection. Follow these steps to make a proper left turn:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Upon approaching an intersection at which you wish to make a left turn, you must give the proper signal in
sufficient time to warn the driver of any vehicle behind you. As you gradually slow down, watch the mirror
to see that the driver of the vehicle behind you has understood your signal. If the road is wide enough for
you to do so without crossing the centerline, leave room for following vehicles to pass you on your right. Be
sure that no vehicle behind you is trying to pass on your left, and, above all, never pull suddenly to your left
from the right-hand lane. If you can’t work your way to the center early enough, go on to the next
intersection.
As you approach the intersection, position yourself in lane position #2 far enough in advance before your
turn.
When you reach the intersection, wait until the way is clear. Do not turn your wheels in your intended path
of travel until you are clear to make your turn.
Both the motor vehicle directly approaching you and the vehicle approaching on your right has the right-ofway.
When the road is clear, make your turn at the proper speed and keep to the right of the center of the
roadway. After turning into a four-lane road, keep driving in the center lane until you can change to the
right lane without getting in the way of other vehicles.
Always yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in the street.
Cancel your directional.
Lane positioning for a right/left turn:
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Follow these steps to make a proper right turn:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
When you wish to make a right turn, you must first give the proper signal in sufficient time to warn the
driver of any vehicle behind you.
Right turns must be taken from the extreme right-hand side of the road.
Do not develop the dangerous habit of swinging to the left before turning right. This is likely to make the
driver of the vehicle following you assume you are going to turn left.
When you reach the intersection, wait until the way is clear. Do not turn your wheels in your intended path
of travel until you are clear to make your turn.
The motor vehicle directly approaching you has the right-of-way.
When the road is clear, make your turn at the proper speed and keep to the right of the roadway.
Always yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in the street.
Cancel your directional.
The Basics of making a turn:
“A” Approach the turn; plan your path through the turn.
“B” Brake prior to the turn to reduce speed to a safe level.
“C” Coast into the first half of the turn, covering the brake (gentle pressure on the brake pedal) in case the need
to apply the brakes arises.
“D” Drive out of the turn by accelerating at a safe, comfortable rate of speed.
E. Turnabouts
Turnabouts are maneuvers in which you may turn your car around to drive in the opposite direction.
You may be asked to perform a turnabout during your road test.
To plan your turnabout you should make certain of the following:
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
There are no signs which prohibit a turnabout, such as a “No “U” Turn” signs.
You cannot cross a double yellow line at any time.
Local statutes may prohibit turnabouts; you should be familiar with local traffic regulations.
You have clear visibility in each direction for a distance of five hundred (500) feet.
There are no hills or curves nearby which could obstruct your view of on-coming traffic.
You are at least two hundred feet (200’) from an intersection.
You have enough space to complete the maneuver.
You are not in an area of heavy traffic.
There are no pedestrians in your path.
You must then decide which turnabout you will use. There are four (4) types. You must choose the safest and
best suited for traffic conditions and the street on which you will make your turnabout.
“U” turn:
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
You must have sufficient space to complete this maneuver.
Check for traffic in both directions.
Signal that you will be pulling to the right curb and stop.
Signal your intent with your left turn signal or turn on your four way hazard lights.
Check traffic in both directions.
When you have a clear path, turn the steering wheel all the way to the left and slowly drive to the left,
completing the maneuver.
Make sure to cancel your directional signal or turn off the hazard lights upon completing your “U” turn.
In Rhode Island, you may make a “U” turn only when it is allowed and does not interfere with the free
flow of traffic in either direction.
Backing into a driveway or side-street on the right side:
x
x
x
x
This turnabout allows you to reenter traffic by driving forward,
Signal your intent to pull to the right side of the street,
Drive past the street or driveway you plan to back into,
Check for pedestrians and traffic in both direction and when clear,
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x
x
x
Begin to back up, slowly turning the steering wheel to the right.
When you have completed your backing maneuver, straighten the steering wheel and stop once you
have cleared the curb line,
After you have stopped on the side street or driveway, check for oncoming traffic, signal your intention
to turn and if clear proceed by entering the main street again.
Pulling into a street or driveway on the left:
x
x
x
x
x
x
This maneuver is more hazardous because you will be backing into the travel lane.
Choose a street or driveway on the left which has clear visibility in both directions, when you have
entered the street or driveway (the car has crossed the curb line), straighten the front wheels and stop,
Look in both directions for pedestrian and vehicular traffic,
Turn the steering wheel to the right and slowly backup into the first lane of travel,
At about the half-way point in the turn, begin to straighten the steering wheel,
After completing the turn, stop, check for on-coming traffic and when the path is clear, signal and enter
the flow of traffic.
The three point turn:
Unless prohibited, you may use the three-point turn to turn around on a narrow street,
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Select a safe location to make this maneuver,
Signal your intent to pull to the right side of the street,
After you have come to a complete stop, signal your intent with your left directional signal or with the
four way hazard lights,
Check for on-coming traffic in both directions,
Turn the steering wheel fully to the left and slowly drive forward, crossing the street,
At a point before the left side curb, stop,
Again check for traffic in all directions,
Turn the steering wheel fully to the right and begin to back up,
When you have reached a point where the front of the car is in the middle of the street, stop,
Again check for traffic in all directions,
Turn the steering wheel to the left and proceed in the opposite direction,
Remember to turn off your directional signal or hazard lights.
BE CAREFUL WHEN MAKING THIS MANEUVER, WAIT
FOR APPROACHING TRAFFIC TO PASS AND
WATCH FOR PEDESTRIANS.
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F. Stopping and Parking
Stopping
Stop When stopping, drivers should completely cease all forward motion for a minimum of three seconds. This
gives the driver time to look left, look right, look left again, and proceed with caution.
Where to stop:
RIGL 31-20-9 Obedience to stop signs. – Every driver of a vehicle approaching a stop sign shall stop before
entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection. In the event there is no crosswalk, the driver shall
stop at a clearly marked stop line, but if none, then at the point nearest the intersecting highway where the
driver has a view of approaching traffic on the intersecting highway before entering the intersection, except
when directed to proceed by a police officer or traffic control signal.
Four-Way Stops
Follow these procedures when at an intersection with a four-way stop:
x
x
x
x
Once stopped, you must yield to all other vehicles that were stopped prior to your arrival at the stop
sign.
Once having stopped, all other vehicles arriving at the intersection after you must yield the right of way
to you.
If two vehicles arrive at the intersection at the same time, you must yield the right of way to the vehicle
on your right.
As always, being courteous and respectful will help prevent dangerous situations and make the roadways
safer for all drivers.
To leave a traffic lane to enter a parking space/parallel parking:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Move into the traffic lane nearest the parking space.
Use a turn signal to indicate your intentions.
Enter the parking space using the four (4) steps shown in the diagram below.
Stop the engine, lock the ignition switch, remove the key, and set the parking brake.
To enter a traffic lane from a parked position:
1.
2.
3.
4.
After starting the engine and releasing the parking brake, maneuver the vehicle to a position from which reentry into the traffic lane can be made in one motion.
Look to the rear. Check the rear view and side view mirrors and look over your left shoulder to cover the
blind spots.
Signal first, then drive out carefully.
Enter the driving lane that is closest to the parking space.
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How to park on hills:
Where you may not park or stop:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
On the travel portion of the highway.
Beside a vehicle stopped or parked at the side of a street (Double Parking).
On a sidewalk.
Within an intersection.
Beside any roadwork so that you block traffic.
On a bridge or in a tunnel.
On any railroad tracks.
Any place where official signs prohibit stopping.
In front of any driveway.
Within 8 feet of a fire hydrant.
Within 20 feet of a crosswalk at an intersection.
Within 30 feet of a flashing red or yellow light, a stop sign, or a traffic light.
Within 20 feet of the driveway of a fire station or across the street within 75 feet of the driveway, where
there are signs.
14. Any place where a sign says ‘No Parking’.
15. Within 50 feet of the nearest rail or a railroad crossing, unless you stop for just a short time to load or
unload passengers or packages.
16. At any curb cut or ramp for handicapped persons.
Unless a law prohibits parking, a vehicle parked on a two-lane road must have the right wheels a maximum of
twelve (12) inches from the right side of the road or curb. On a one-way road, a parked vehicle may have either
wheel a maximum of twelve (12) inches from the side of the road and headed in the same way the traffic goes.
G. Starting on a Hill
When you take your driving test, you may have to stop and start your vehicle on a hill. You will be instructed by
the examiner to drive to the right side of the road, stop, and then set your parking brake and shift to neutral.
The parking brake must hold the vehicle from rolling back.
When starting your vehicle on the hill, look over your left shoulder to be sure that traffic is clear, put the vehicle
in gear, signal, release the parking brake and drive out carefully. In a vehicle with a standard shift, you should
be able to drive up the hill without rolling back.
H. Starting from the Curb or Making a Safe Lane Change
1.
2.
Signal your intent with sufficient time to warn other motorists of your intent.
Check your mirrors and look over your shoulder to make sure the blind spots of the mirrors are clear and no
other vehicle has entered your intended path.
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I. Entering the Roadway from a Private Road or Driveway
When entering the roadway from a private road or driveway, you must stop at the sidewalk before continuing to
the curb line where you are mandated to stop again. Stopping at the sidewalk will allow you to check for
pedestrians in the sidewalk and stopping at the curb will allow you to check for oncoming traffic.
J. Passing Another Vehicle
Passing a vehicle on the left:
On multiple lane highways, the law requires you to use the left lane to pass and the right
lane for normal driving. When you are being passed by another vehicle, you should slow a
little and keep right. This will allow the other driver to pass safely.
When approaching another vehicle from the rear and you want to pass, be sure you have
sufficient distance to pass safely and check your blind spots. Blind spots are areas that
cannot be seen in your rear or side-view mirrors. Before making any lane changes or
passing maneuvers, a motorist must check over his or her left or right shoulders to view the
areas not visible in the mirrors. Avoid placing packages or other large items in the back
seat or on the rear window ledge, which could cause a blind spot.
1.
Give a left turn signal to let the driver ahead/behind you know that you will be pulling
out.
2. Look to the rear through the rear view and side view mirrors and over your left shoulder
to view any blind spots that may exist.
3. Proceed to change lanes and pass on the left.
4. Cancel your left turn signal.
5. At night it might be necessary to blink your headlights from low beam to high beam and
back to low beam to warn the driver in front of you that you intend to pass.
5. When you have safely passed the vehicle, activate your right turn signal.
6. You should go far enough past the vehicle you are passing so that you are able to see
the tires on the pavement of the vehicle you passed in your inside rear view mirror.
It will then be safe to return to the right side of the road.
7. In general, pass vehicles only on the left.
8. Never pass more than one (1) vehicle.
9. Never travel over the posted speed to pass a vehicle.
Passing a vehicle on the right:
A driver may pass on the right of another vehicle only as follows:
1.
2.
3.
When the motor vehicle ahead is making or about to make a left turn.
On a street or highway that is wide enough for two or more lanes of traffic with no obstructions and not
occupied by parked vehicles.
On a one-way street or roadway wide enough for two or more lanes of traffic and free of obstructions or
parked vehicles.
Under no conditions can you drive off the pavement or main traveled portion of the road to pass a
motor vehicle. Passing on a hill, curve, railroad crossing, at an intersection, where signs prohibit,
over solid lines, entering a tunnel or bridge, or over the posted speed limit is dangerous and may be
the last mistake you make.
K. Proper Backing Procedures
x
x
x
If you are backing up for a distance greater than 30 feet, it is recommended that you activate your hazard
lights to warn other motorists of your maneuvers.
While backing, you should look over your right shoulder, partially turning your body, while maintaining
proper control of your vehicle.
When backing in a straight line, you should periodically check all mirrors to be sure that no other vehicles,
pedestrians, or obstacles are in your path of travel.
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Rhode Island Driver’s Manual – www.dmv.ri.gov
L. Freeway Driving
Driving on freeways can be easier than on other types of roads (no crossroads, traffic lights, or pedestrians)
provided the motorist takes necessary precautions and remains alert. Because of the higher speeds of freeway
traffic, you may be called upon to think faster, to anticipate situations, and to act sooner.
Sudden lane changes on a freeway by you or another driver can be dangerous. You should use the proper signal
for every lane change. When you want to pass, check for fast approaching vehicles to the rear and use your turn
signals briefly before swinging out as well as before turning back into the right lane.
If you must stop on a freeway because of mechanical or other difficulties, signal and move your vehicle into the
breakdown lane if possible. Beware of vehicles that might be traveling wrongfully in the breakdown lane.
Beware of the condition called velocitizing. This happens when you begin to feel that you are going slower than
your actual speed. Be particularly aware of velocitizing when preparing to leave a freeway. You must reduce
speed and return to normal driving conditions as you approach the exit.
On long freeway trips, pull off the road to a safe place occasionally to rest in a designated safe area (not in the
breakdown lane). To avoid the effects of highway hypnosis, (a condition caused by long periods of driving) get
out of your vehicle for a while to relax and to take refreshments.
If it becomes necessary to make repairs along any highway, be sure to move the vehicle to a place where all four
wheels are off the main pavement. Be sure to turn on the vehicle’s hazard (emergency) flashing lights. If
available, consider using flares, reflectors, or triangles.
Acceleration lanes permit motorists entering freeways the opportunity to accelerate to the speed of traffic.
Deceleration lanes permit motorists about to exit a freeway to slow down to the exit ramp speed.
Merging area is the area beyond the acceleration lane on a freeway where motorists merge into the flow of
traffic.
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Freeway speeds vary from lane to lane; therefore, it is important for motorists to pick the proper lane to travel.
The far left lane is for passing other vehicles. Trucks, busses, and other special vehicles are prohibited from
traveling in this lane. The middle lane(s) is (are) for through traffic. The right lane is for slower moving
traffic and for motorists entering and exiting the freeway.
M. Safe Driving on the Highway
The following are recommendations to be a safe highway driver:
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Drive at or below posted speed limits. Rhode Island law sets speed limits as follows: 25 miles per
hour (mph) in residential areas and 50-65 mph on most highways.
Don’t tailgate. The easiest way to tell if you are a safe distance from the vehicle ahead of you is the
three-second-following-distance rule (see 4.e.A, The Three Second Rule). If the roadway is wet or
slippery, you will need additional distance (seconds). If you are being tailgated, change lanes. Never
speed up because you will be tailgated at a higher speed. Never slam on your brakes. Never antagonize
or call on a tailgater. Stay calm and ignore potential aggressive road rage incidents.
Don’t drive at the same speed for a long time. Change your speed occasionally on long trips.
Look behind you now and then in your rear/side mirrors. Never pass a vehicle until you are sure
no one is coming up behind you in the passing lane.
Always signal before changing lanes. Do this soon enough to let other drivers know what you are
going to do.
Never stop in the traffic lane. Stop on a highway only if you must. Move as far off the traffic lane as
you can. If you need help, raise the hood of your vehicle, tie a white cloth on the door handle and stay
in your locked vehicle.
Drive in the right lane unless otherwise posted or if you are passing another vehicle. Making
frequent lane changes are unsafe. Slow traffic must always keep to the right.
Stop and rest when drowsy. Driving when drowsy is a major cause of serious motor vehicle collisions.
Slow down and drive with care in bad weather. Wet, icy, and snow covered highways can be very
dangerous.
If you miss your exit ramp, go on to the next exit. Never stop and back up to the missed exit.
Keep your eyes moving, looking at other vehicles. Always be aware of what is going on around
you.
Give emergency vehicles the right-of-way at all times. If an emergency vehicle is approaching,
pull over to the right, stop and wait for it to pass. Before re-entering the flow of traffic; activate your
turn signal, glance over your shoulder to ensure another emergency vehicle is not coming, then proceed.
Always drive 500 feet behind emergency vehicles.
Be especially careful when buses stop. Passengers may be entering or leaving buses.
Never take the right-of-way for granted. The law grants right-of-way, but the other driver may not.
Yield to the other driver in these cases; it may save a life.
The Basic Speed Law in Rhode Island requires motorists to drive only as fast as the road conditions
dictate. Be it snow, rain, sleet, ice, or road construction, motorists must realize the speed limit sign is the
maximum speed for ideal conditions and therefore, they must adjust their speed to the conditions. The Basic
Speed Law promotes driving at a speed which is safe for pedestrians, road conditions, and other traffic.
N. Cellular Phone Usage
Drivers under the age of 18 are prohibited from using a cell phone while operating a motor vehicle, per R.I.G.L.
31-22-11.9. This includes a prohibition from using a hands free device or speakerphone. The only time a minor
is permitted to use a cell phone is in the case of an emergency. If you are under 18, do not use a cell
phone while driving!
Using a cellular telephone while driving is a major distraction to the operator of a motor vehicle. If
you do use a cellular phone, take the following precautions:
x
x
x
x
x
x
Decide if you really need to make/receive a call while driving.
Have a passenger place the call or dial the telephone when stopped. Pull off the road.
Try not to allow the telephone call to become emotional.
Purchase hands free or speaker type telephone devices.
When receiving or making calls, have the cellular telephone within your reach.
Try to avoid using the cell phone if at all possible.
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TEXTING WHILE DRIVING IS FORBIDDEN IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND!
Evidence suggests that text messaging (or texting) often requires the driver to both look at the phone and
manipulate the keypad with one’s hand.
CELLULAR PHONE PENALTIES YOU NEED TO KNOW:
CELL PHONE PENALTIES
If you are a minor (less than 18 years of age), you are NOT allowed to use a cellular phone while driving, as
stated in Rhode Island General Law § 31-22-11.9.
If you are found to be in violation of the law, you are subject to the following penalties:
First Offense =
Second Offense =
Third Offense + =
$50.00 fine
$50.00 fine
$100.00 fine + lose license until 18 years of age.
TEXTING PENALTIES
No matter the age, you are NOT allowed to use a wireless handset to compose, read or send text message while
operating a motor vehicle, as stated by Rhode Island General Law § 31-22-30.
If you are found to be in violation of the law, you are subject to the following penalties:
First Offense
Second Offense
Third Offense +
=
=
=
$85.00 fine
$100.00 fine
$125.00 fine
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Rhode Island Driver’s Manual – www.dmv.ri.gov
IV. Signals and Roadway Markings
A. Signals
The law states that a driver has to make a signal by hand or by using directional lights when driving out of a
parking space and at least 100 feet at a minimum before making a turn.
These are the hand signals to use:
x
To turn left: Put left hand and arm straight out,
keeping hand and arm still.
x
To turn right: Put left hand and arm up, keeping
hand and arm still.
x
To stop or slow down: Put left hand and arm
down, keeping hand and arm still.
All signals should be given in time to let drivers in
back of you know what you are going to do.
B. Roadway Markings
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Solid Lines: Solid lines separate lanes of traffic. Motorists are not permitted to pass other vehicles nor
change lanes. You may cross the solid lines in an emergency (turns, breakdown, object in road, parking,
etc).
Broken Lines: Broken lines separate lanes of traffic. Motorists are permitted to pass other vehicles (yellow
or white) and change lanes (white).
Solid with broken lines: A solid line with a broken line is usually painted on two-lane roadways. Motorists
with the solid line on their side of the roadway should not pass another vehicle nor cross the solid line.
Exceptions exist in emergencies (object in roadway, vehicle in roadway, making a legal left/right hand turn,
parking, breakdown). Motorists with the broken line at the drivers’ side may pass another vehicle with care.
Yellow Lines: Yellow lines separate traffic traveling in opposite directions. Single or double solid yellow
lines separate traffic traveling in opposite directions. They prohibit motorists from passing other vehicles.
Motorists may not cross the solid lines. Exceptions exist (legal turns, object in road, etc). Broken yellow
lines separate traffic traveling in opposite directions. Passing another vehicle is permitted with care.
White Lines: White lines are painted upon the highways to separate traffic moving in the same direction.
Solid white lines are usually found to the far right or left (carpool, restricted lane, breakdown, parking) of
roadways. Passing another vehicle and changing lanes are restricted. Exceptions exist (carpool lane, slow
moving vehicles, hills, breakdown, parking, etc). Broken white lines allow motorists the opportunity to pass
other vehicles and change lanes.
Other roadway markings consist of: Crosswalks, Xing, RR, stop lines, parking lanes, reversible lanes,
restricted lanes, and shared turn lanes. A shared turn lane is the center lane of traffic set apart from the
travel lanes by solid single yellow lines on the outside and broken yellow lines inside the shared turn lane.
The lane also has arrows painted on the pavement and usually signs indicating restriction for use of the lane
for turning only. Motorists wishing to turn shall not enter the lane unless they intend to turn within 100 feet
(minimum).
Sharrows and “Share the Road” with bicycles and bike lanes: A shared-lane marking, installed in the
center of a travel lane to indicate that a bicyclist may use the full lane. It is to alert motorists of the lateral
location bicyclists are likely to occupy within the traveled way and reduce the incidence of wrong-way
bicycling.
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Divided roadway delineated by a median
strip, jersey barrier, guard rail, etc.
Multi-lane roadway, crossing center or side
solid lines permitted to turn or in the event of
a breakdown.
Two-lane, two-way roadway, passing
prohibited in both directions, crossing solid
lines permitted to turn or in the event of a
breakdown.
Two-lane, two-way roadway, passing
prohibited in one direction.
Two-lane, two-way roadway, passing is
permitted.
Shared Left Turn Lane: All vehicles use the
center lane for left turns in and out of left
side streets/driveways.
HOV Lane: High Occupancy Vehicle Carpooling
Reversible Lanes: Motorist may travel in lane
with green arrow.
Disabled Parking with Permit Only.
Sign Panel
Pavement Painting
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C. Rotary/Roundabout Diagram
A = Splitter or Refuge
B = Crosswalk
C = Center Island
Roundabouts are intersections that direct traffic in a counterclockwise direction around a center island. The
purpose of this circular intersection is to slow traffic while reducing delays in traffic movement. This type of
traffic control does not have stop signs or traffic signals; instead, it utilizes yield signs, directional signs and
pavement markings to guide traffic through the intersection.
Prior to entering a roundabout, the motorist should observe the yellow diamond shaped warning sign for an
arrow with a circle pattern with two (2) or more arrows pointing away from the circle that represents roundabout
exits.
Listed below are the procedures to follow while entering and leaving the traffic circle. NOTE: The information in
this manual refers to single lane roundabouts. Many states utilize multi-laned roundabouts, so plan ahead.
1. MOTORISTS’ DUTIES WHILE NAVIGATING A ROUNDABOUT:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Slow down to the posted speed. Yield to pedestrians and other motorists, they have the right-of way.
Ensure you have an adequate safe gap. Move to the proper lane position upon entering, maneuvering and
exiting the roundabout.
ENTER: Yield to vehicles in the roundabout. Wait for a gap in traffic, and then merge into traffic in the
roundabout in a counterclockwise direction.
PROCEED: Continue through the roundabout until you reach your street. Never stop in a roundabout unless
it is an emergency.
EXIT: Signal, then exit the roundabout to the right. Yield to pedestrians.
2. CYCLISTS’ DUTIES WHILE NAVIGATING A ROUNDABOUT:
Generally, cyclists should walk their bicycles across the pedestrian crosswalk.
Experienced cyclists may navigate roundabouts like motorists. Bicyclists should ride in the middle of the lane,
not near the curb line, to prevent vehicles from passing them. As with following the same laws as motor
vehicles, cyclists must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
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3. PEDESTRIANS’ DUTIES WHILE NAVIGATING A ROUNDABOUT:
a.
b.
c.
APPROACH: Pedestrians should look left upon arriving at a crosswalk in search of oncoming vehicles and
bicycles.
CROSS: Pedestrians should cross to the raised or painted splitter or refuge. Then, look right and finish
crossing to the opposite sidewalk.
Pedestrians should never walk through a roundabout or cross the center island.
R.I.G.L. 31-17-8, Right-of-Way at Rotary: In the absence of any traffic control device or sign, the driver of a
vehicle about to enter a rotary, regardless of the direction from which the vehicle is approaching, shall yield the
right-of-way to all vehicles already in the rotary. The State Traffic Commission shall determine the location of
yield signs at rotaries. Violations of this section are subject to fines enumerated in 31-41.1-4.
D. Traffic Lights/Signals
Traffic signals allow vehicles to proceed safely through busy intersections. Beware that not all intersections
have traffic signals or traffic control signs. Intersections without signs or signals are known as uncontrolled
intersections. When approaching uncontrolled intersections, motorists must treat the intersection as if there
were a yield sign present. Signaled intersections give the right-of-way to drivers and pedestrians one street at a
time. When a driver fails to stop at a red light, others who have a green light should not insist on the right-ofway. Motorists should be alert for possible lawbreakers and prepare to stop to avoid a collision. You should slow
down, cover the brake, and proceed with caution when approaching all intersections. Cover the brake means
taking your foot off the accelerator pedal and hovering it over the brake pedal without touching it, preparing to
push the brake pedal if a hazard should arise. Right-of-way is the privilege of having or giving other motorists
immediate use of a certain roadway.
x
Steady Red Light: Stop before reaching the crosswalk and wait until the light is green (unless another
light such as a green arrow directs you otherwise).
x
Right Turn on Red: Except when a sign is placed prohibiting a right turn on red, vehicles may turn right
on a steady red light after the driver has stopped completely and yielded the right-of-way to pedestrians and
other vehicles.
x
Steady Yellow Light: A yellow light tells a driver that a red light is next. Slow down and proceed with
caution if a stop cannot be made safely. Clear the intersection.
x
x
x
Steady Green Light: You may proceed with caution avoiding colliding with another vehicle or pedestrian.
Flashing Yellow Light: Slow down, cover the brake, then proceed with caution.
Flashing Red Light: When nearing a flashing red traffic light, you must make a full stop and yield the
right-of-way to all vehicles on your right and left. Treat the flashing red signal as a stop sign.
x
Traffic Light with a Green Arrow: In cities, intersections often have traffic lights that show a green
arrow along with the red light. Vehicles at the light may proceed into the intersection and turn in the
direction indicated by the green arrow. This is known as a protected turn lane. A protected turn lane will
protect motorists as they turn at intersections. They are protected from on-coming traffic, and a special lane
with markings designates this lane. The lane will have an arrow signal, which allows safe passage.
x
Traffic Light with a Red Arrow: Red arrows are usually used on left/right-hand turns. When a red arrow
is displayed, you must stop and may not proceed in the direction of the arrow. When the red arrow goes
out, it will be followed either by a green arrow, a steady green light, or a flashing yellow arrow. If there is a
lane marked for turning, you should be in that lane well in advance of approaching the intersection, give your
signal and make the turn so as not to interfere with other traffic.
x
Traffic Light with a Flashing Yellow Arrow: Flashing yellow arrows are sometimes used for left-hand
turns. When a flashing yellow arrow is displayed, you may proceed with turning in the direction of the arrow
only after yielding to oncoming traffic and pedestrians. Oncoming traffic has a steady green light.
x
x
Stale green light is a light that has been green for a while.
Fresh green light is a light that has just turned green.
x
HAWK: High-Intensity Activated Crosswalk is used to let pedestrians safely cross a street.
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Rhode Island Driver’s Manual – www.dmv.ri.gov
Traffic signals allow vehicles to proceed safely through busy intersections. They give the right-of-way to drivers
and pedestrians one street at a time.
HAWK: HIGH-INTENSTY ACTIVATED CROSSWALK
SOLID RED LIGHT
Complete stop.
Remain stopped until
signal turns green.
SOLID YELLOW LIGHT
Clear the intersection.
Prepare for the red light.
SOLID GREEN LIGHT
Go, if clear, after yielding
or stopping for vehicles or
pedestrians.
RED, YELLOW and
GREEN ARROWS tell
motorist to stop/go in the
direction the arrow is
pointing.
HORIZONTAL
TRAFFIC SIGNAL
GREEN ARROWS tell motorists they may
proceed in the direction of the arrow (also
known as the “Protected Turn Situation”).
FLASHING RED SIGNAL
A flashing red signal is
treated as a stop sign.
+
FLASHING YELLOW SIGNAL
A flashing yellow will tell
motorists to proceed with
caution.
PEDESTRIAN CROSSING SIGNALS
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Rhode Island Driver’s Manual – www.dmv.ri.gov
V.
Driving Emergencies
The following section contains suggested methods of handling common driving emergencies. Please
keep in mind that every emergency situation varies and these suggestions may not be applicable to
all emergencies.
A. How to Avoid Skidding
Most skids are caused by the driver’s failure to react in time to adjust the vehicle’s speed to road and traffic
conditions. When you are driving on a slippery road, you should apply the brakes by very gently pumping them
and maintaining the proper speed for the road conditions (this procedure is for vehicles with conventional brakes
only). On roads that are wet or icy, you should never make any sudden changes in speed or direction. If your
vehicle is equipped with anti-lock brakes, do not pump the brake. Press the pedal firmly and maintain pressure
until the vehicle stops. Know your vehicle and follow the instructions in your owner’s manual. ABS – Anti-lock
Braking System is a computer controlled braking system that keeps the wheels rotating (turning) during
emergency braking. Thus, the vehicle will not skid and steering is always available to the driver. If the driver
stomps on the brake and stays on the brake, they will be able to steer in the direction they want to travel. The
brake will pulsate – this is normal for ABS systems.
B. How to Control a Vehicle in a Skid
To control a vehicle as it begins to skid:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Let off the gas.
Keep your foot away from the brake pedal and the clutch (if applicable).
Let the vehicle slow gradually.
Turn in the direction you want the vehicle to go.
Be prepared to steer left and right a few times until you get your vehicle completely under control.
There is no set rule for vehicle control. Different techniques may be required depending on whether the vehicle
is front wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive. Consult your owner’s manual for instructions.
C. Total Brake Failure
If you put your foot on the brake and the pedal goes right to the floor:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Pump the brake pedal. Pumping might temporarily restore enough brake fluid pressure to slow or stop your
vehicle. You will know after three (3) or four (4) pumps if your brakes are going to hold.
Downshift to a lower gear. This uses the braking power of the engine to slow your vehicle.
Engage the parking brake. You can quickly release the parking brake for a moment if the vehicle begins to
skid.
Search for an open zone. You can still steer. As a last resort, rub the wheels against a curb to reduce
speed. If a collision is unavoidable, steer for a sideswipe rather than colliding head-on into something solid.
D. Blowout or Flat Tire
If you experience tire failure, remember the tire is already a total loss; therefore, your task is to
drive to safety:
1.
2.
Grip the steering wheel firmly with two (2) hands.
Ease up on the accelerator to slow the vehicle. Do not brake. Braking can cause the vehicle to swerve. Let
the vehicle slow gradually.
3. Check the traffic situation as you gain control of the vehicle.
4. Drive off the roadway slowly, braking gently.
5. Turn on hazard flashers. Drive slowly to a location where you can stop safely.
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E. Stuck Accelerator
If your accelerator pedal sticks to the floor or your engine races out of control:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Kick the side of the accelerator once to try to jar it free.
Shift the car to NEUTRAL at the same time you apply the brake.
Choose an escape path that leads to an open zone off the roadway. Continue braking.
If you are steering into a sharp curve or turn, shift to NEUTRAL immediately. Depress the clutch in a stickshift vehicle. The engine will race, but power is removed from the drive wheels. You might damage the
engine or transmission in an automatic transmission, but you may avoid a collision.
5. Follow your escape path off the roadway.
6. Turn off the ignition once you are off the roadway.
F. Engine Failure
If you are driving and the engine suddenly shuts off, shift to NEUTRAL when the engine first sputters
or stops.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Begin moving out of traffic to the nearest shoulder or curbing.
Turn on the hazard flashers. Do not brake.
Try to restart the engine while you are moving. If the engine starts, shift to a forward gear and proceed. If
it does not start, move onto the shoulder or to the curb, if possible. Steering will be harder when power is
lost by engine failure. Try to start the engine.
If the engine still fails to start, raise the hood and leave the hazard flashers on. Go for help. If you have a
cellular telephone, use it to secure assistance.
G. Off Road Recovery
If you are involved in a situation where driving off the road is your only option of avoiding a collision,
or you have driven off the shoulder, follow the below listed steps to return to the roadway:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Hold the steering wheel firmly on the top half with both hands. The greater the drop-off between roadway
and shoulder, the greater amount of steering control you need. Keep your vehicle heading straight toward
your target.
Let up on the accelerator and brake gently to five (5) or ten (10) mph. Avoid hard braking.
Position your vehicle so it straddles the roadway edge.
Select a place to return to the roadway where the shoulder is nearest the level of the roadway.
Check for traffic. Signal, check your blind spot, and return to the roadway.
Steer sharply toward the roadway to return. If the drop-off is severe, you might need to slow more and turn
very sharply to get back onto the pavement.
Counter-steer sharply the instant the front tires touch the roadway. You counter-steer when you steer in the
opposite direction.
Center the vehicle in the lane closest to where you left the roadway and re-establish your target. Cancel
your signal. Accelerate to match the flow of traffic.
H. Threat of a Head-on Collision
Head-on collisions may result in injury that is more serious to drivers and passengers, than any other
type of crash. Head-on collisions are also more likely to result in death than any other type of crash.
The following steps can be taken to avoid a head-on collision:
1.
2.
3.
Maintain vehicle control. Brake hard, but do not lock the wheels. Slowing lessens the force of the impact,
gives the other driver space, and time to recover control.
Blow the horn and flash the headlights. These actions might alert an impaired driver. Continue braking
and move to the right if the driver does not heed your warning.
Steer right toward the shoulder or curb-line. Do not steer left. The other driver likely will try to steer
back into the proper lane. Prepare to drive entirely off the roadway to the right, if necessary.
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I. Threat of a Side-Impact Collision
Take these actions if you are threatened with a side-impact collision:
1.
2.
3.
Brake or accelerate quickly. Do whichever seems more likely to lessen the collision impact.
Blow the horn to alert the other driver.
Change lanes or swerve away from the impact. Be aware of the constantly changing traffic situation around
you.
J. Threat of a Rear-End Collision
Take these actions if you are threatened with a rear-end collision:
1.
2.
Flash your brake lights early to alert the driver behind you.
As the vehicle nears, check your front zones for open space and move forward, if possible. This precaution
gives the driver approaching from the rear more time and space to stop safely.
3. If the intersection is clear, accelerate to give the other driver more space to stop. If your path is not clear,
turn right.
4. If a collision is unavoidable, release your brakes just before the collision occurs. This helps soften the
impact. Brake immediately after the collision to avoid sliding into another traffic lane.
K. Headlight Failure
If your headlights suddenly go out:
1.
2.
3.
Turn on your parking lights, hazard (emergency) flashers, or turn signal.
Try the headlight switch a few times.
Pull off the road as quickly as possible and leave your emergency flashers on.
L. Vehicle Stalls on Railroad Tracks
If your vehicle stalls on railroad tracks and you know a train is approaching:
1.
2.
Get yourself and any passengers out of your vehicle and off the tracks, and move as far from the tracks as
possible.
To avoid being hit by debris from the collision, exit your vehicle and run, far away from the tracks, in a
parallel line in the opposite direction from which the train is moving. The debris field from the collision of
train and motor vehicle will travel in the same direction that the train is moving – you want to be as far away
as possible in the opposite direction.
Railroad crossing information for the motorist:
x
x
x
Be alert to signs and roadway markings indicating a railroad crossing is ahead (X, or RR).
When red signals begin to flash or gates are being lowered, stop, look, and listen.
Never attempt to beat the train to the crossing or go around gates that are down.
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Rhode Island Driver’s Manual – www.dmv.ri.gov
x
x
x
x
All busses, trucks transporting hazardous material, and certain other vehicles must always stop prior to
crossing railroad tracks. Be patient and wait for these vehicles to cross.
Assume a train will travel on the tracks, even if it appears the tracks are abandoned.
The chance of being killed in a collision with a train is 40%.
It may take a train a mile and a half to come to a complete stop after applying the brake.
M. Vehicle Catches Fire
Whenever you see smoke coming from under the hood of your vehicle:
1.
2.
3.
Pull immediately off the road, turn your ignition to the off position, and move away from the vehicle.
Dial 911 for police and fire personnel.
Unless you have a fire extinguisher, do not attempt to put out the fire.
N. Vehicle in Water
Should your vehicle drive into water or become stalled in a rain-swelled roadway:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Take off your seat belt and attempt to flee through a window.
If your vehicle is equipped with power windows, open the window before the water causes a loss in power.
Avoid opening your door as water will fill the inside of your vehicle and could cause your vehicle to flip onto
the roof.
Should your vehicle sink before you are able to get out, climb into the rear seat. The weight of the engine
will cause the vehicle to sink nose first; therefore, a pocket of air may remain in the rear of your vehicle. As
the vehicle settles, take a deep breath and climb out a window.
O. Driving in Inclement Weather
Winter Driving
First snow or ice – Drivers aren’t prepared for winter driving and forget to take it slow. Remember to drive well
below the posted speed limit and leave plenty of room between cars.
Black ice – Roads that seem dry may actually be slippery-and dangerous. Take it slow when approaching
intersections, off-ramps, bridges or shady areas – all are hot spots for black ice.
Brake – Brake early, brake slowly, brake correctly, and never slam on the brakes. If you have anti-lock brakes,
press the pedal down firmly and hold it. If you don’t have anti-lock brakes, gently pump the pedal. Either way,
give yourself plenty of room to stop.
DRIVING TIP THAT COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE!
NEVER DRIVE IN THE RAIN OR SNOW WITH YOUR CRUISE CONTROL ON.
If the cruise control is on when your car begins to hydroplane and your tires lose contact with the
pavement, your car will accelerate to a higher rate of speed making you lose control.
P. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide poisoning can occur during cold weather when motorists have all their windows closed. Carbon
monoxide can be found in the exhaust fumes of all motor vehicles. If you begin to yawn or feel dizzy or
nauseous, you may be experiencing the symptoms of the poisoning. The fumes are odorless, and the only cure
is to open your windows and allow fresh air to circulate within your vehicle. Having your exhaust system
checked periodically as well as not idling your vehicle with the windows closed for a long period of time may
avoid the effects of the poisoning. Carbon Monoxide poisoning can cause death if untreated.
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VI. Motorcycles
What all drivers should know about motorcycles:
1.
Motorcyclists often slow by downshifting or merely rolling off the throttle, thus not activating the brake light.
Allow more following distance, say three (3) to four (4) seconds. At intersections, predict a cyclist may slow
down without visual warning.
2. Motorcyclists often adjust position within a lane to be seen more easily and to minimize the effects of wind,
road debris, and passing vehicles. Understand that motorcyclists adjust lane position for a purpose, not to
be reckless or show off.
3. Because of its small size, a motorcycle seems to be moving faster than it really is. Do not think cyclists are
speed demons.
4. Because of its small size, a motorcycle may look farther away than it is. When checking traffic to turn at an
intersection, assume a motorcycle is closer than it looks.
5. Because of its small size, a motorcycle can be easily hidden by objects inside or outside a car (door posts,
mirrors, passengers, bushes, fences, bridges, blind spots, etc). Take an extra moment to thoroughly check
traffic, whether you are changing lanes or turning at intersections.
6. The stopping distance for motorcycles is nearly the same as for cars, but slippery pavement makes it difficult
to stop quickly. Allow more following distance behind a motorcycle because it cannot always stop ‘on-adime’.
7. Mirrors are smaller on a motorcycle and usually convex. This gives the cyclist a smaller image of you and
makes you appear farther back than you actually are. Keep at least a three (3) to four (4) second space
cushion when following a motorcyclist.
8. Maneuverability is one of a motorcycle’s better characteristics, but only at slower speeds and with good road
conditions. Do not expect a motorcyclist to always be able to dodge out of the way.
9. Carrying a passenger complicates a motorcyclist’s task. Balance is more difficult, stopping distance is
increased, and maneuverability is reduced. Predict more problems when you see two on a motorcycle,
especially near intersections.
10. There are a great deal more cars and trucks than motorcycles on the road, and some drivers do not
‘recognize’ a motorcycle and thus ignore it (usually unintentionally). Look for motorcycles, especially when
checking traffic at an intersection.
11. At night, single headlights and taillights on motorcycles can blend into the lights of other traffic. Those ‘odd’
lights could be a motorcycle.
Use of Protective Equipment:
Cyclists can reduce or prevent injuries by using proper equipment and following the laws and
regulations associated with motorcycles:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
A helmet properly worn can reduce or prevent head injuries. Rhode Island law requires passengers on
motorcycles to wear helmets. In addition, any operator under twenty-one (21) shall at all times, wear a
certified helmet. New operators, regardless of age, must wear an approved helmet for the first year of
license.
Eye protection in the form of glasses, goggles or a face shield can reduce or prevent eye injuries. Rhode
Island law requires all operators to properly wear eye protection.
Heavy shoes or boots can reduce or prevent injury to an operator’s feet.
Full length pants, not shorts, and a jacket made of durable material can reduce or prevent bodily injury.
Full-fingered gloves can reduce or prevent injury to the operator’s hands.
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Rhode Island Driver’s Manual – www.dmv.ri.gov
VII. Systems for Safe, Courteous, and Defensive
Driving
Defensive driving is the art of protecting yourself and others from dangerous and unexpected changes in the
driving environment. The defensive driver anticipates actions of other roadway users and is ready to adjust
speed and position accordingly. The defensive driver also adjusts to changes in weather and road conditions.
The driver can learn to develop driving habits and skills by following the additional systems described below:
1.
IPDE: The IPDE system is a ‘thinking-doing’ process. IPDE can help you to avoid collisions. With practice,
this process will become automatic. IPDE will also help you become a defensive driver.
Identify:
Locate any hazards in the driving scene by getting the big picture.
THINK!
Predict:
Judge where possible points of conflict may occur.
THINK!
Decide:
Determine the actions to take and when and where to take them.
THINK!
Execute:
Act by maneuvering the vehicle to avoid any conflict.
DO!
2.
ZONES: The zone system consists of six (6) zones (areas of space) around your vehicle that is the width of a
lane extending as far as the driver can see. Being aware of open zones and closed zones around your
vehicle can help you avoid collisions and become a defensive driver.
x
x
3.
Open zone: A space you can drive without restrictions to your line of sight or intended path of travel.
Closed zone: A space not open because of restrictions in your line of sight or intended path of travel.
ORDERLY VISUAL SEARCH PATTERN: The orderly visual search pattern will help you develop your own
process for identifying trouble while driving. It is a process of searching critical areas in a regular sequence
for clues or conflicts in and around your intended path of travel.
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
Check your line of sight and path of travel ahead.
Evaluate your front zones in the 12-15 second target area (this refers to the area you will be in after you
have traveled for 12-15 seconds) by searching intersections, driveways, and parked vehicles for possible
changes in your line of sight and path of travel.
Glance in your mirrors to check your rear zones.
Evaluate your 4-6 second range for any changes to your path of travel.
Look ahead again to another 12-15 second range.
Evaluate your 4-6 second range for any changes to your path of travel.
Glance in your mirrors.
Glance at your speedometer and gauges.
Continue the sequence again as you drive.
4.
MR. SMITH: Mr. Smith is Harold L. Smith, who developed this system in 1952 based on a “space-cushion”
principle, which manipulates space to provide a cushion between your vehicle and everything else on the
road. It is an internationally recognized safety system. The Smith System has five (5) keys to collision free
driving.
a.
Leave Yourself an Out: Situations may occur that you don’t plan on. Keep plenty of space between you
and the next vehicle.
Aim High In Steering: Don’t look down your fender or hood but ahead 4 to 6 seconds (the space you will
travel in 4-6 seconds) and 12 to 15 seconds ahead at the middle of your driving lane.
Get The Overall Picture: Look ahead a full block in cities/towns and half a mile ahead on highways. You
want to see everything in the space you are moving into, along with the vehicles you see ahead of you.
Keep Your Eyes Moving: Don’t look at one thing. Develop the art of scanning and glancing, continually
and quickly. Look ahead, look at the side, and look in your rear and side mirrors.
Make Sure They See You: See and be seen by other roadway users. Don’t take for granted that others
can see your vehicle. Tap your horn or flick your headlights if you need to.
b.
c.
d.
e.
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A. The Three (3) Second Rule – Following Distance
The following three-second rule cannot always guarantee you time to stop to avoid a collision, but it works in
most situations. Here’s how it works: When the vehicle ahead passes a fixed point (traffic sign, overpass, pole,
tree, a line on the pavement, etc.) start counting seconds, ‘one-thousand and one, two-thousand and two, threethousand and three’. If your vehicle passes the point before you finish your count, you are following too close to
the vehicle in front of you. Just drop back a little and count again. When driving under adverse weather/road
conditions, be sure to add another second or two to your following distance.
When you see a potential hazard ahead
such as children playing in the street, a
vehicle parked close to the highway, etc.,
slow down right away. Do not wait until
you come upon the hazard before acting.
Stop if necessary.
B. The Stopping Rule
A safe stopping distance within four (4) seconds gives you the opportunity to stop safely without colliding with a
person, vehicle or object.
While driving, pick any fixed object such as a stop sign, light pole, bridge, parked vehicle, etc. in your path of
travel and begin counting seconds, ‘one-thousand and one, two-thousand and two, three-thousand and three,
four-thousand and four’. If your vehicle reaches the fixed object you picked before you finish your count, you
will not have enough distance to bring your vehicle to a complete stop, thus avoiding the potential hazard. You
must slow the speed of your vehicle and try another fixed object.
C. Lane Positions
You have three (3) different lane positions within a single lane of travel by which you can position your vehicle.
1.
2.
3.
Lane position 1: Driver positions his/her vehicle in the middle of the lane. This is the safest position to
drive under normal driving situations when no potential hazards exist to the left and right of the roadway.
Lane position 2: Driver positions his/her vehicle three (3) to six (6) inches from the left line of the lane.
This is the position to drive if hazards exist to the right of the vehicle or you intend to turn left.
Lane position 3: Driver positions his/her vehicle three (3) to six (6) inches from the right line or curb of the
lane. This is the position to drive if hazards exist to the left of your vehicle or you intend to turn right.
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VIII.
Sharing the Road Safely
A. Sharing The Road With Large Trucks
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) warns that big trucks are four (4) times more likely
than vehicles to get into collisions. Trucks are less maneuverable than vehicles and also come with far bigger
blind spots. The following are three major blind spots for truck drivers:
1. The front of the truck.
2. The left and right front sides.
3. Behind the truck (if the truck is pulling a trailer, the blind spot is over 50 feet long).
It is up to you to avoid the blind spots, also known as ‘no zones’. Be sure not to cruise into a truck’s right side.
If you find yourself in that position, pull ahead or fall back quickly. As you do, grip the steering wheel firmly,
especially if narrow lanes force you to drive close to the truck. The airflow between the two vehicles may tend to
draw them together unless you are on guard.
It is just as important never to tailgate. Tailgating can be fatal, especially if the vehicle ahead is a semi-tractortrailer. Stay at least 50 feet back if you expect the driver to see you. You know you have enough distance
behind a truck or semi-tractor-trailer when you can see the side-view mirrors of the truck you are following.
Always be aware of your position to a semi-trailer in city driving as these large vehicles make wide turns. Be
alert for the lights and markings on all large vehicles.
B. Night Driving
Using your headlights
It is more dangerous to drive at night than in the daytime because you cannot see as far ahead at night. The
law requires motorists to turn their headlights on when driving from sunset to sunrise, any time you cannot see
500 feet ahead of you, and when windshield wipers are in use as a result of rain, sleet, snow, etc.
When bad weather has reduced visibility during the daytime, you must turn on your headlights. The law requires
that you use your low beam headlights during bad weather conditions such as snow, rain, and fog or whenever
there are conditions that reduce visibility. In these situations high beams may reflect off the snow, rain, or fog
in the air and shorten the distance you can see.
The back license plate on your vehicle must be lighted so it can be seen and read at least 60 feet from the back
of the vehicle.
Dimming your headlights: 500/200 Rule of Dimming Headlights
When driving a motor vehicle on the open highway at night, you should dim your high beam headlights when
meeting or following another vehicle. Dim your high beam headlights promptly at a distance of at least 500 feet
ahead when approaching another vehicle. When following another vehicle at a distance of 200 feet or less, dim
your high beam headlights so that they will not distract or blind the driver ahead.
Approaching headlights
To avoid being temporarily blinded by approaching headlights, glance at the right edge of the roadway (or fog
line: the white line on the right side of most roadways) until the bright lights have gone by and your vision has
returned to normal. Motorists who stare into oncoming vehicles headlights or rear-view mirror light will
experience temporary blindness as their body regains sight from the glare. This temporary blindness time is
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known as glare recovery time. Motorists tend to experience the same effects from bright sunlight as well. The
practice of looking to the side of the roadway helps with glare and allows you to detect pedestrians who may be
walking close to the edge of the road.
High Beams
Low Beams
C. Pedestrians
Drivers must watch carefully for pedestrians. Many collisions are the result of pedestrians not paying attention
or entering traffic carelessly. Drivers who fail to yield the right-of-way or do not use caution when pedestrians
are present cause many collisions. Consider the following suggestions for pedestrian safety:
x
x
x
x
x
Drive slowly and remain alert in any areas where there are pedestrians present.
Watch for pedestrians who are walking against a red light, stepping into traffic from between parked
vehicles, and crossing in locations where there is not a marked crosswalk. Even in situations where
pedestrians cross the street carelessly, the driver must always yield.
Use caution when children are playing in or near the street. Children often move quickly and do not
check for traffic.
Use caution in the presence of elderly pedestrians. They may not be alert to the dangers of traffic
situations. They tend to move slowly and their reaction time is slow in traffic situations.
Do not stop to pick up hitchhikers at any time.
Pedestrians must also realize the dangers of walking in traffic and should be aware of the following safety rules
and suggestions:
x
x
x
x
Always obey ‘Walk’ and ‘Don’t Walk’ signals.
If facing a yellow or red light, cross only if a ‘Walk’ signal is showing.
When there are sidewalks, pedestrians should not walk on or along the highway. If there are no
sidewalks, pedestrians should walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.
Use crosswalks. The main purpose of crosswalks is to encourage pedestrians to cross only at certain
locations where crossing can be made safely. Any intersection of public roads constitutes a legal
crosswalk whether it is marked or not.
When walking at dusk or at night, pedestrians should wear light colored or reflective clothing.
D. Blind Pedestrians
Use extra caution when approaching a blind or low vision pedestrian. Pedestrians who are blind or have low
vision often use a white cane or a guide dog to assist them traveling along or across a street. Fines for failing to
yield to blind or low vision pedestrian may result in a fine up to $1,000.
When a pedestrian using a white cane or a guide dog is crossing or attempting to cross the street ahead of you,
you must bring your vehicle to a complete stop before arriving at the intersection and yield the right-of-way to
the pedestrian.
Pedestrians who are blind or have low vision use the sound of traffic (including your engine) as a guide in
determining when it is safe to cross a street, so never assume they will expect you to make a right turn on a red
light at an intersection after stopping. Always be alert for pedestrians who are blind or have low vision,
particularly if you are driving an electric or hybrid vehicle that is quieter than most other vehicles on the road.
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E. School Buses
If red lights are flashing on the school bus, the law
requires that motorists approaching from either direction
come to a full stop and remain stopped until the bus’s
red lights no longer flash. This requirement applies not
only on public highways but also on private roads and in
parking lots. A fine of up to $300 and/or suspension of
your driver’s license for a period up to thirty (30) days
will be imposed for the first violation of this law.
Penalties increase for subsequent violations. Motorists
do not have to stop for the flashing red lights of the
school bus when the bus is opposite your vehicle on a
divided highway. A divided highway is any roadway with a Jersey barrier, grass, guardrail, trees, water, etc.
between the lanes of travel in opposite directions. There is no need to stop your vehicle if a school bus is in a
loading zone.
F. Bicycle Riders
Bicycle riders are given the same rights and must obey the same laws as drivers of motor vehicles. In addition,
they should follow these rules:
x
x
x
x
x
Bicycle riders should ride as close to the right of the road as they can do safely. They should only cross
the lane of vehicle travel to make a left turn.
No more than two (2) bicycles may ride side by side.
When there is a safe bicycle path near the roadway, riders should use the path rather than the road.
Any person fifteen (15) years of age or younger riding a bicycle or a passenger on a bicycle on a public
highway, bicycle path, or other public right-of-way must wear a certified bicycle helmet.
Bicyclists have a legal right to ride on the roadway. Under Rhode Island Law, a bicycle is considered a
vehicle with equal rights and responsibilities as other vehicles on the road. Bicyclists are transportation
users as well as motorists and deserve respect. They are more vulnerable to injury than those in an
automobile, so motorists must drive especially carefully when bicyclists are present.
Motor vehicle drivers must be alert and cautious for bicycle riders in or near the roadway.
Share the Road with Bicyclists
Rhode Island General Law (RIGL §31-19-6 “Bicycles to right of road”) – Every person operating a bicycle upon a
roadway shall ride as near to the right side of the roadway as practicable, exercising due care when passing a
standard vehicle or one proceeding in the same direction except where official traffic control devises (signs or
pavement markings) specifically direct bicyclists to do otherwise.
Road hazards not easily seen by automobile drivers or trucks may hamper a bicyclist or cause them to crash.
These hazards could include potholes, glass, litter, storm grates, and railroad crossings, as well as opened doors
of parked vehicles. Any of these items could cause a bicyclist to move into your path or to slow down. Give
bicyclists plenty of clearance on the street so they will have room to move around these hazards.
Bicyclists should travel in the same direction as the rest of traffic. Automobiles must yield to bicyclists in the
same way as for other types of vehicles. Look for signs that a bicyclist is inexperienced such as whether the
bicyclist is riding in a smooth and straight manner or weaving, wobbling, and riding against traffic without a
helmet. Give such bicyclists plenty of room.
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Shared Lane Markings
Have you seen this road marking? Well, be aware. They have been installed on some local and state roadways
over the past few years. The road marking in the picture is a “shared lane” marking. What does the road
marking mean? What purpose does it serve? The points below explain the purpose of the Shared Lane
markings:
x
x
x
x
x
Assist bicyclist with lateral positioning in a shared lane with on-street parallel parking in order to reduce
the chance of a bicyclist’s impacting the door of a parked vehicle.
Assist bicyclist with lateral positioning in lanes that are too narrow for a motor vehicle and a bicycle to
travel side by side within the same traffic lane.
Alert road users of the lateral location bicyclists are likely to occupy within a traveled way.
Encourage safe passing of bicyclists by motorists.
Reduce the incidence of wrong-way bicycling.
Seven Things to Know When Sharing the Road with Bicyclists:
1.
When passing cyclists leave adequate space and be aware of road surface conditions like potholes, puddles
or debris which may force cyclists to move further left than usual.
x
x
x
2.
Don’t blast your horn as you approach a cyclist as the loud noise can startle them and cause them to
swerve.
Avoid talking on a cell phone, text messaging, or being otherwise distracted when approaching or
passing a bicyclist.
Avoid driving or swerving into bicycle lanes.
When approaching or passing a bicycle be prepared to stop suddenly if a person enters the driver’s lane.
x
x
In bad weather give bicyclists extra trailing and passing room like you would give other motorists.
Allow as much clearance as possible (3-5 feet) when passing to prevent contact with a bicyclist and
be prepared to stop suddenly if the person were to fall into the driver’s lane.
3.
When a road is too narrow for cars and bicycles to travel safely side by side, be prepared to slow down or
stop when the bicyclists ahead of you “takes the travel lane,” (i.e., proceeds in the center of the road).
4.
Do not pass bicyclists if oncoming traffic is near. Wait until there are no oncoming automobiles before you
pass.
x
After you have passed a bicyclist, do not slow down or stop quickly directly in front of them.
5.
When turning left at an intersection, yield to oncoming bicyclists just as you would to an oncoming motorist.
6.
Before turning right at an intersection or driveway, check for bicyclists on your right or behind you who are
continuing straight ahead.
7.
Look behind you for a cyclist approaching your parked car before you open the door into a traffic lane.
Driving on Roads with Bicycle Lanes
In Rhode Island, bicycle lanes on the road are clearly marked with a solid white line, with the words “Bicycle
Lane” and include bicycle symbols. Do not drive in a bicycle lane. You may cross a bicycle lane when you are
turning a corner or entering or leaving an alley, private road or driveway. Yield to bicyclists in a bicycle lane or
on a sidewalk before you turn into the lane or sidewalk.
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Watching for Children on Bicycles
Children cannot see things out of the corner of their eyes as well as adults, and cannot judge the speed and
distance of oncoming vehicles. They lack a sense of danger and believe adults will look out for them.
x
Always reduce speed and use extra caution when children are in the vicinity, particularly in school
zones.
Dooring
Dooring is when the driver or passenger carelessly opens the door of a parked or stopped vehicle and collides
with a passing cyclist. Every passenger of a stopped or parked vehicle should check their surroundings before
opening the door of a vehicle.
According to Rhode Island General Laws § 31-21-1, “Opening vehicle doors”: No person shall open the door of a
motor vehicle on the roadways, streets, or highways of this state, available to moving traffic, unless and until it
is reasonably safe to do so, and can be done without interfering with the movement of other traffic, including
pedestrians and bicycles on sidewalks, shoulders, or bicycle lanes. No person shall leave a door open on the side
of a vehicle available to moving traffic, including pedestrians and bicycles on sidewalks, shoulders or bicycle
lanes, for a period of time longer than necessary to load or unload passengers. Any person violating the
provisions of this section shall be fined as provided in § 31-41.1-4.
Additional bicycling information to know:
Rhode Island’s Department of Transportation (RIDOT) “Bike RI” website:
http://www.dot.ri.gov/community/bikeri/index.php#navigation
Rhode Island General Laws (RIGL) § 31-19 “Operation of Bicycles”:
http://webserver.rilin.state.ri.us/Statutes/TITLE31/31-19/INDEX.HTM
Rhode Island General Laws (RIGL) § 31-1-3 “Types of Vehicles”:
http://webserver.rilin.state.ri.us/Statutes/TITLE31/31-1/31-1-3.HTM
Rhode Island General Laws (RIGL) § 31-15-18 “Passing, Use of Lanes, and Rules of the Road”:
http://webserver.rilin.state.ri.us/Statutes/TITLE31/31-15/31-15-18.HTM
G. Aggressive Driving
In its broadest sense, aggressive driving can refer to any incident in which an angry or impatient motorist or
passenger intentionally injures or hits or attempts to injure or hurt another motorist, passenger, or pedestrian, in
response to a traffic dispute or grievance. Incidences of aggressive driving cases have increased each year in
the United States. As the driver of a motor vehicle, keep calm in traffic, be patient and courteous to other
drivers, and avoid unsafe driving habits that can endanger or anger other motorists. Be aware of behaviors that
have resulted in violence in the past:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Blocking the passing lane (not yielding to someone wishing to pass).
Tailgating (riding too close to the vehicle in front of you).
Making angry or obscene gestures.
Honking your horn repeatedly.
Taking more than one parking space or bumping another vehicle while parking.
Using high beam headlights in heavy traffic areas.
Blocking traffic to speak to a passerby or people in another vehicle.
Cutting off another vehicle so that it cannot merge, pass, exit, or make a turn.
Assuming that an apparently aggressive act was deliberate.
To avoid becoming an aggressive driver:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Take breaks on long drives.
Focus on your driving and not on the problems of your day.
Be comfortable and relaxed when you drive.
Avoid all alcohol use before driving.
Avoid eye contact with a hostile or angry driver.
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6.
Do not drive when you are angry, upset, or overtired.
To avoid becoming a victim of aggressive driving:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Do not react to any form of aggressive driving.
Avoid speeding up, braking or swerving suddenly, or making eye contact with other drivers.
If a driver continues to hassle or follow you, drive to the nearest police station or busy place to get help.
Lock your doors whenever you enter or leave your vehicle.
When stopped in traffic, leave enough room to pull out from behind the vehicle you are following.
If someone tries to get into your automobile, sound your horn or auto alarm.
Avoid a fight at all costs.
Do not carry any sort of weapon.
If an aggressive driver challenges you, take a deep breath and get out
of the way, even if you THINK you are right. You don’t want to be
dead right. Save your energy and your life for something worthwhile.
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IX.
Laws You Must Know
It is your responsibility as a driver in Rhode Island to know all motor vehicle laws. Some of the most
important ones are listed below:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
Drivers of motor vehicles in Rhode Island are permitted, but not required, to turn right at a red light after a
full stop unless there is a “no turn on red” sign posted. Drivers must first yield to all oncoming traffic and
pedestrians before making the turn.
Children who are less than seven (7) years old must be transported in a federally approved restraint seat in
the back seat of the vehicle. Follow instructions for use described in the restraint seat manual for age and
weight.
Seat belt use by the driver and passengers is required.
Be alert to stop for school buses with flashing red lights.
You must begin to use your directional signals a minimum distance of at least 100 feet before making turns
or changing lanes. Slow down gradually before turns to avoid being hit from the rear.
In the absence of signs or signals, when two (2) vehicles approach or enter an intersection from different
highways or streets at approximately the same time, the driver of the vehicle on the left must yield the rightof-way to the vehicle on the right.
You must turn on vehicle headlights when driving any time from sunset to sunrise and any time you cannot
see 500 feet ahead of you. Headlights must be turned on if it is raining or snowing or in conditions which
would reduce visibility to less than 500 feet. Headlights must be on anytime wipers are on.
State law in Rhode Island makes the motorist responsible for removing from the vehicle snow and ice that
limit vision and for clearing away from the roof of the vehicle any snow that might blow down on the
windshield or windows of other vehicles.
All persons driving on the state’s public roads must carry motor vehicle liability insurance. When you obtain
or renew your vehicle registration, you must sign a statement that you have liability insurance on your
vehicle and will keep this insurance for the full registration period. Proof of insurance ($500 fine for failure to
comply) must be carried in your vehicle along with the registration at all times. You must also certify upon
obtaining or renewing your driver’s license that you understand that you must carry proof of insurance when
you drive a motor vehicle in the State of Rhode Island.
Littering: It is a violation of Rhode Island law to litter on public or private roadways or property ($500 dollar
fine).
You are required by law to reduce your speed and refrain from sounding a horn or causing other loud noises
when approaching a horse being driven or ridden upon a public highway.
Drivers in Rhode Island are not allowed to operate a motor vehicle upon a public highway while wearing
earphones or headsets.
If stopped by a law enforcement officer, you are required upon request to display your driver’s license and
vehicle registration card. Further, upon request, you are required to write your name in the presence of that
officer for the purposes of being identified.
You are required to exit your vehicle if the law enforcement officer tells you to.
If stopped by a law enforcement officer at night, a motorist is required to turn on the vehicle’s interior lights
and leave them on until the officer allows the driver to drive off.
All laws are subject to change and, as a driver, you are responsible for the safety of all occupants in your
vehicle.
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Common Motor Vehicle Violations – Fine Schedule
The following fines are subject to change through statute:
Violation
Driving with expired registration
Statute
31-3-32
Fine
75.00
Driving on expired license
31-10-30
75.00
Obedience to devices (i.e. red light, directional arrows,
etc.)
31-13-04
75.00
Eluding traffic light
31-13-6(3)(i)
75.00
Operator left of center
Overtaking on left
31-15-3
31-15-4
75.00
75.00
Overtaking on right
31-15-5(a)
75.00
Clearance for overtaking
31-15-6
75.00
Places where overtaking prohibited
31-15-7
75.00
No passing zone
31-15-8
75.00
Following too closely
31-15-12
75.00
Manner of turning at intersection
31-16-2
75.00
Turn signal required
31-16-5
75.00
Time of signaling turn
31-16-6
75.00
Obedience to stop signs
31-17-4
75.00
Right of way [to pedestrians] in crosswalks
31-18-3
75.00
Safety belt/Child restraint violation
31-22-22
85.00
Times when lights required
31-24-1
75.00
No inspection sticker
31-38-3
75.00
Speeding
1-10 miles per hour (mph) in excess of posted speed limit
85.00
11 mph in excess of posted speed limit with a fine of
$10.00 per mile in excess of speed limit
195.00 minimum
Cell phone usage (minors)
31-22-11.9
50.00
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X.
Drinking and Driving
A. Effect of Alcohol and Other Drugs on the Body
Alcohol is by far the greatest hazard for a driver. In Rhode Island, the legal drinking age is twenty-one (21).
Drunk drivers cause more than half of the collisions in which somebody is killed. More than 25,000 people die
each year in alcohol-related collisions in the United States; 5000 are teenagers. If you drink, even just a little,
your chances of a collision are seven (7) times greater than if you don’t drink.
Alcohol reaches your brain in seconds affecting it before any other part of the body. Upon reaching the brain,
alcohol affects first the control of your judgment and skill. Alcohol will affect your ability to estimate distance
(depth perception), speeds and the movement of other vehicles as well as reducing your ability to handle your
own vehicle.
Alcohol slows you down; it doesn’t pep you up. It slows down normal reflexes, interferes with judgment and
reduces alertness and vision. Some people appear stimulated after drinking. This is because the alcohol has
caused a loss of caution and self-control.
A 12 ounce container of beer, a 4 to 5 ounce glass of wine and a 1 to 1 1/2 ounce shot of hard liquor have about
the same amount of alcohol. Any amount of alcohol can affect you differently at different times. For example,
drinking on an empty stomach will affect the body faster than drinking after eating. Alcohol’s effects are greater
when you are taking medicine or are tired.
After drinking, there is nothing that will reduce the effects of alcohol except time. Coffee, food, fresh air, or
exercise might wake an intoxicated person up, but it will not sober them up. Alcohol is burned up by the liver at
a set rate and eliminated through the kidneys and lungs.
ALMOST ANY DRUG CAN AFFECT YOUR DRIVING SKILL. HERE ARE A FEW
THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Most drugs taken for headaches, colds, hay fever, allergy, or to calm nerves can make you drowsy and can
affect your control of a motor vehicle.
When taking prescription medicine, it is important to ask your doctor about any possible side effects which
relate to driving.
Even though pep pills, uppers, and diet pills can make you alert for a short time, later they can make you
nervous, dizzy and unable to concentrate. They can also affect your vision. When they wear off they can
cause the opposite effect, making you tired and less attentive.
Tranquilizers or sedatives make you drowsy and make driving very dangerous especially when mixed with
alcohol.
Studies have shown that people who drive after smoking marijuana make more mistakes and get arrested
for traffic violations more than other drivers. These drivers also have more trouble adjusting to headlight
glare. It is also illegal to smoke marijuana!
Dangerous types of drugs can be obtained illegally. LSD, cocaine and heroin are examples. They make
users unaware or indifferent to their surroundings and unable to drive a motor vehicle safely.
Many drugs, both legal and illegal, have unexpected effects when they are taken with alcohol. Alcohol and
other drugs should never be used at the same time. Combining alcohol with another drug can cause a
synergistic (additive) effect, whereby the effects are multiplied. Not only does this pose a serious hazard to
your health, but also it can have a disastrous effect on your ability to drive. One drink taken when you are
also taking another drug, even a simple allergy or cold remedy, could have the same effect on your driving
ability as having several alcoholic beverages. Even worse, it could kill you!
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B. Blood Alcohol Concentration
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is the ratio of alcohol to blood (to body weight) present in the
bloodstream at any given time. In Rhode Island the BAC level is evidence that you are legally intoxicated or
unfit to drive. The current BAC level set by law in Rhode Island is different for different ages:
x
x
Any person of any age with a BAC of .08% or more is intoxicated and will be charged with drunk driving
– Driving Under the Influence (DUI).
Any person under the age of twenty-one (21) with a BAC of .02% but less than .08% is impaired and will
be charged with Driving While Impaired (DWI).
When alcohol enters your stomach, it goes into your blood and to all parts of your body. Your BAC depends on
several factors:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
How much alcohol you have had to drink.
How much you weigh.
How much food you ate before drinking.
How much time you have been drinking.
The speed at which your body processes the alcohol in your system, which is different for each person.
C. Implied Consent
Implied consent means that any person who drives a motor vehicle in Rhode Island has given consent to a
chemical (breathalyzer-blood-urine) test to determine the amount of alcohol/drug, if any, in his/her blood if
arrested for suspected driving while intoxicated (DWI).
When test results show a BAC in excess of .05% but less than .08%, drivers twenty-one (21) years of age or
older can be convicted of DWI if there is other evidence that the driver was driving under the influence of
alcohol. If your BAC is .08% or more, it is evident by itself that the driver was intoxicated at the time of the
test. A driver may be convicted of DWI, however, if the officer convinces the court that your ability to drive was
affected by the alcohol/drug, even if you are not given a chemical test.
D. Refusal to Take the Breathalyzer Test
If you refuse to take a chemical test, your license will be suspended for a minimum of six months. You are also
subject to a fine, a highway safety assessment, public community service, and drunk driving school and/or
referral to an alcohol treatment program.
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E. Penalties
IT IS AGAINST THE LAW FOR A DRIVER OF ANY AGE TO CONSUME AN
ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE WHILE DRIVING.
Chemical Test Refusal
1st Violation
ƒ 6 month license suspension
ƒ $200 - $500 fine
ƒ $500 highway safety assessment
ƒ 10 – 60 hours of community service
2nd Violation (within a 5 year period)
ƒ Up to 6 months of incarceration
ƒ License suspension until age 21
ƒ $600 - $1,000 fine
ƒ $500 highway safety assessment
3rd or subsequent violation (within a 5 year period)
ƒ Up to 1 year of incarceration
ƒ 2 – 5 year license suspension
ƒ $800 - $1,000 fine
ƒ $500 highway safety assessment
Under 18 years of age
ƒ $200 department of health chemical testing program
assessment
ƒ Special course on driving while intoxicated and/or
alcohol/drug treatment
ƒ $200 department of health chemical testing program
assessment
ƒ 60 – 100 hours of community service
ƒ Alcohol/drug treatment
ƒ $200 department of health chemical testing program
assessment
ƒ 100 hours or more of community service
ƒ Alcohol/drug treatment
Driving While Impaired (DWI)
Under 18 years of age
BAC 0.02% - 0.08%
1st Violation
ƒ 6 – 12 month license suspension
ƒ $150 highway safety assessment or community
restitution
2nd Violation
ƒ License suspension until age 21
ƒ $150 highway safety assessment or community
restitution
3rd or Subsequent Violation
ƒ Additional 2 year license suspension
ƒ $150 highway safety assessment or community
restitution
ƒ Special course on driving while intoxicated
ƒ Alcohol/drug treatment
ƒ Special course on driving while intoxicated
ƒ Alcohol/drug treatment
ƒ Special course on driving while intoxicated
ƒ Alcohol/drug treatment
Driving under the influence (DUI)
Under 18 years of age
BAC: 0.08% or above
1st Violation
ƒ 6 – 18 month license suspension
ƒ $500 highway safety assessment
ƒ 10 – 60 hours of community service
2nd or subsequent violation
ƒ Up to 1 year of incarceration and/or $500 fine
ƒ License suspension until age 21
ƒ Special course on driving while intoxicated
ƒ Alcohol/drug education and/or treatment
ƒ Special course on driving while intoxicated
ƒ Alcohol/drug treatment
Driving while impaired (DWI)
18-21 years of age
BAC: 0.02% - 0.08%
1st violation
ƒ 1 - 3 month license suspension
ƒ $250 fine
ƒ 30 hours of community service
2nd violation
ƒ 3 – 6 month license suspension
ƒ $250 fine
ƒ $300 highway safety assessment
ƒ Special course on driving while intoxicated
ƒ Alcohol/drug treatment
ƒ 60 hours of community service
ƒ Special course on driving while intoxicated
ƒ Alcohol/drug treatment
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Chemical Test Refusal
Adults
1st violation
ƒ 6 month – 1 year license suspension
ƒ $200 department of health chemical testing program
ƒ $200 - $500 fine
assessment
ƒ $500 highway safety assessment
ƒ Special course on driving while intoxicated and/or
ƒ 10 – 60 hours of community service
alcohol/drug treatment
2nd violation (within a 5 year period) – Misdemeanor
ƒ Up to 6 months in prison
ƒ $200 department of health chemical testing program
ƒ 1 – 2 year license suspension
assessment
ƒ $600 - $1,000 fine
ƒ 60 – 100 hours of community service
ƒ $500 highway safety assessment
ƒ Alcohol/drug treatment
3rd or subsequent violation (within a 5 year period) – Misdemeanor
ƒ Up to 1 year in prison
ƒ $200 department of health chemical testing program
ƒ 2 – 5 year license suspension
assessment
ƒ $800 - $1,000 fine
ƒ 100 hours or more of community service
ƒ $500 highway safety assessment
ƒ Alcohol/drug treatment
Driving under the influence (DUI)
21 years of age or older
BAC: 0.08% - 0.1%
1st violation – Misdemeanor
ƒ Up to 1 year in prison
ƒ 30 – 180 day license suspension
ƒ $100 - $300 fine
ƒ $500 highway safety assessment
1st violation – Misdemeanor
ƒ Up to 1 year in prison
ƒ 3 – 12 month license suspension
ƒ $100 - $400 fine
ƒ $500 highway safety assessment
ƒ $86 fee
ƒ 10 – 60 hours of community service
ƒ Special course on driving while intoxicated and/or
alcohol/drug treatment
BAC: 0.1% - 0.15% (or unknown)
ƒ $86 fee
ƒ 10 – 60 hours of community service
ƒ Special course on driving while intoxicated and/or
alcohol/drug treatment
BAC: 0.15% or above
1st violation – Misdemeanor
ƒ Up to 1 year in prison
ƒ 3 – 18 month license suspension
ƒ $500 fine
ƒ $500 highway safety assessment
ƒ $86 fee
ƒ 20 – 60 hours of community service
ƒ Special course on driving while intoxicated and/or
alcohol/drug treatment
BAC: 0.08% - 0.15% (or unknown)
2nd violation (within a 5 year period) – Misdemeanor
ƒ 10 days – 1 year in prison
ƒ $400 fine
ƒ 1 – 2 year license suspension
ƒ $500 highway safety assessment
ƒ Use of ignition interlock system for 1 – 2 years
ƒ $86 fee
following the completion of the sentence
ƒ Alcohol/drug treatment
BAC: 0.15% or above
2nd violation (within a 5 year period) – Misdemeanor
ƒ 6 months – 1 year in prison
ƒ $500 highway safety assessment
ƒ 2 year license suspension
ƒ $86 fee
ƒ $1,000 fine
ƒ Alcohol/drug treatment
BAC: 0.08% - 0.15% (or unknown)
3rd or subsequent violation (within a 5 year period) – Felony
ƒ 1 – 3 years in prison
ƒ $400 fine
ƒ 2 – 3 year license suspension
ƒ $500 highway safety assessment
ƒ Use of ignition interlock system for 2 years following
ƒ $86 fee
the completion of the sentence
ƒ Alcohol/drug treatment
ƒ Seizure of the vehicle by the state
BAC: 0.15% or above
3rd or subsequent violation (within a 5 year period) – Felony
ƒ 3 – 5 years in prison
ƒ $500 highway safety assessment
ƒ 3 year license suspension following the completion of
ƒ $86 fee
the sentence
ƒ Alcohol/drug treatment
ƒ $1,000 - $5,000 fine
ƒ Seizure of the vehicle by the state
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Driving under the influence (DUI)
1st violation – Felony
ƒ 1 – 10 years in prison
ƒ $1,000 - $5,000 fine
2nd violation (within a 5 year period) – Felony
ƒ 2 – 15 years in prison
ƒ Up to 4 year license revocation
Driving under the influence (DUI)
1st violation – Felony
ƒ 5 – 15 years in prison
ƒ 5 year license revocation
2nd or subsequent violation (within 5 years) – Felony
ƒ 10 – 20 years in prison
ƒ 5 year license revocation
Serious bodily injury resulting
ƒ Up to 2 year license revocation
ƒ Alcohol/drug treatment
ƒ $3,000 - $10,000 fine
ƒ Alcohol/drug treatment
Death Resulting
ƒ $5,000 - $10,000 fine
ƒ Alcohol/drug treatment
ƒ $10,000 - $20,000 fine
ƒ Alcohol/drug treatment
R.I.G.L. 3-8-9, Transportation of alcoholic beverages by underage persons. – Any person who has not
reached his or her twenty-first (21st) birthday and who operates a motor vehicle upon the public highways,
except when accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, and, knowingly having liquor or intoxicating beverages
in any form in containers, opened or unopened, in any part of the vehicle, shall have his/her license suspended
or his/her right to operate a motor vehicle denied for a period of not more than thirty (30) days by the
administrator of the division of motor vehicles. This section does not apply to persons between the ages of
sixteen (16) and twenty-one (21) who are transporting unopened alcoholic beverages in the course of their
employment.
R.I.G.L. 3-8-10, Possession of beverage by underage persons. – Any person who has not reached his or
her twenty-first (21st) birthday and has in his or her possession any (alcoholic type) beverage as defined in this
title shall be fined one hundred fifty dollars ($150) to seven hundred fifty dollars ($750) for the first offense,
three hundred dollars ($300) to seven hundred fifty dollars ($750) for the second offense, and four hundred fifty
dollars ($450) to seven hundred fifty dollars (($750) for the third or subsequent offense. In addition, any person
who violates this section may be required to perform community service and shall be subject to a minimum sixty
(60) day suspension of his or her driver’s license, and upon a second offense may be ordered to undergo a
substance abuse assessment by a licensed substance abuse professional.
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XI. In Case of A Collision
A. What to do After a Collision
1.
2.
3.
Try to stay calm.
Stop your vehicle immediately.
Return to the scene of the collision and make your identity known to any interested person. Severe penalties
are imposed against drivers who choose to leave the scene of a collision (‘hit and run’) without properly
identifying themselves.
4. Report all collisions to the nearest state or local police immediately.
5. Request rescue assistance if personal injury is involved.
6. In the event of a minor collision, if possible, drive your vehicle off to the side of the roadway and notify the
police.
If you collide with or do damage to a parked vehicle or other property, you must leave your name and address in
writing attached securely to such vehicle or property so that the owner may find it when he/she returns to their
vehicle or property. Also, report the collision to the nearest state or local police immediately.
Collision involving personal injury or property damage in excess of $1000.00 must additionally be reported to the
police.
A police report is required if:
x
x
x
Someone is injured in the collision.
Property damage is over $1,000.
You hit an unattended vehicle.
B. What to Report if you Have a Collision
Record the following information if you have been involved in a collision:
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
The exact location: Note the names of the street or streets if the collision was at an intersection. You
should also note the number of the house nearest the collision or the nearest mile marker number on an
interstate highway. If possible, note how far it is from any marker such as a telephone pole, railroad
crossing, street sign, or highway marker.
The exact time of the collision.
The name, address, license, insurance carrier and policy number, and registration state and
number of the other driver: It is your right and the right of the other driver to get this information.
The names and addresses of all parties who witnessed the collision, as well as those of the
persons in the other vehicle.
The name of the police officer who is at the scene, if one arrives.
A description of the exact damages.
A description of any injures.
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C. Common Causes of Collisions
Most collisions can be avoided. Be mindful of the most common causes of motor vehicle collisions:
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Driver/human error
Speeding
Driving after drinking and/or ingesting drugs
Driving too fast for the road conditions – rain/snow/sleet/ice/construction
Not paying full attention to what you are doing – inattention/distractions
Driving too close to the vehicle in front of you – tailgating.
Driving to the left of the centerline – wrong side of the road
Not looking when driving away from the curb
Not yielding the right-of-way
Vehicle malfunctions – defective vehicle
Roadways – construction/potholes/gravel/sand
D. Violations Resulting from a Collision
RIGL 31-26-1 Duty to stop in collisions resulting in personal injury [or death] – Felony
RIGL 31-26-2 Duty to stop in collisions resulting in damage to vehicle – Court appearance
RIGL 31-26-4 Duty on collision with unattended vehicle – Court appearance
RIGL 31-26-5 Duty in collision resulting in damage to highway fixtures – Court appearance
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XII. When Stopped by Police
Listed below are simple suggestions for motorists to follow if they are stopped by a law enforcement
officer:
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
If you are stopped at nighttime, you are required to turn interior lights on and leave them on until the
officer tells you to turn the light off. Leave your headlights on as well for safety reasons.
The motorist should not pretend he/she does not see the officer, assuming it is another motorist that the
officer is attempting to stop.
Turn your right directional on and begin to slow down, and eventually pull to the right as far as possible.
Do not obstruct traffic, nor block another persons’ driveway, etc.
After you have pulled completely to the right, turn your engine off; begin to put your window down
before the officer arrives at your vehicle.
Do not take your safety belt off until you ask permission.
Keep your hands on the steering wheel.
You are not allowed to exit your vehicle unless asked to do so by the officer.
Do nothing until you are told to do so by the officer. Wait for him/her to ask for your license, registration
and insurance card (you are required by law to carry each of these items on your person). Do not hand
the officer your license or other documents in a holder. Take them out.
You and any passengers should never make any sudden movements or gestures; reach under seat, lean
towards glove box, etc.
Do not follow the officer as he/she returns to the patrol vehicle. Wait until he/she returns with your
documents.
If asked to sign a citation, do so. It is not an admission of guilt, solely an acknowledgement that you
have received the citation.
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XIII. Equipment You Must Inspect!
To ensure the safety of passengers in your vehicle and other vehicles, you are required by law
(R.I.G.L. 31-38-4) to maintain the serviceability of your vehicle and to comply with Rhode Island law
with respect to equipment mandated by law.
Tires: You may not drive on a tire that has less than 3/32 of an inch of tread (measure the depth of the tread
with a penny). Never mix and match tires on your vehicle (radial with bias-belted). Use your owner’s manual
for a schedule of prescribed maintenance checks. Measure tire pressure while your tire is cold to get an accurate
reading.
Airbags: When combined with the shoulder and lap belts, airbags can save lives. Children and infants should
always ride in the back seats of vehicles equipped with passenger side air bags. Airbags supplement safety
belts. Some motorists may have to move their seats back to establish a safety zone from a deployed airbag.
Seat Belts: Properly worn safety belts can save lives. Lap and shoulder belts working together reduce the risk
of death and serious injury by almost 50%. Safety belts will keep you from hitting the steering wheel,
dashboard or other objects in your vehicle. Belts will also keep you inside your vehicle, which is really your only
protection in a violent crash.
Brakes: Do not wait for the brake pedal to touch the floor before you schedule repairs. If while braking, your
vehicle pulls to one side, or, the pedal feels spongy, follow the prescribed maintenance checks located in your
owner’s manual. Note, the parking brake serves as a means of stopping a vehicle’s movement and therefore, it
too must be in proper working order.
Steering: When you turn the steering wheel, there should be no play nor feel loose. If noises occur when you
turn the wheel, it may be an indication you are in need of power steering fluid. As with other fluid checks, your
owner’s manual has scheduled maintenance suggestions for all fluids.
Lights: It is the responsibility of the motorist to check his/her headlights, taillights, directional, brake, backup,
running, parking, and instrument panel lights to ensure they in fact work. It is also a good idea to clean the
grime, dirt, and salt from all lights as you inspect the lighting system. Note: Certain lights must be checked with
the assistance of another person.
Other equipment: Mirrors, mufflers, horn, and wipers are also important pieces of equipment in/on your
vehicle that must be maintained and serviced on a regular basis.
Turn on the ignition switch in almost any car and watch the instrument panel. The modern automobile has an
abundance of warning lights that provide valuable information. The list could include:
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Brake system warning
Windshield washer fluid level
Coolant level
Brake fluid level
Door ajar
Headlamp door position
Check Engine
High beam indicator
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Seatbelt light
Cold engine warning
Turn signals
Charging system
Transmission temperature
ABS or Anti-lock Brake System indicator light
SRS or Supplemental Restraint System indicator
light
Brake lining wear indicator light.
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XIV. Organ and Tissue Donor Program
Currently, more than 90,000 people nationwide await lifesaving organ transplants and many more will require a
tissue transplant. Yet, many of them – almost 7,000 – will die this year because of a critical shortage.
You now have an opportunity to consider donating life through organ & tissue donation. You should know that:
x
x
x
x
x
x
Anyone can be a potential donor, regardless race or medical history. If you are under 18 years old, you
need parental consent.
It costs nothing to donate.
All major religions support donation.
Signing a donor card or having a donor designation on your license will not affect the quality of health
care you receive. If you are sick or injured and admitted to the hospital, the first priority of any health
care provider is to save your life.
People receive transplants based on factors like matched blood type, body size, critical need and how
long they’ve been waiting.
Donation does not interfere with funeral or burial arrangements.
IF YOU DECIDE TO DONATE, HERE’S HOW TO MAKE YOUR WISHES KNOWN:
x
x
x
LICENSE DESIGNATION: Most importantly, ask the DMV to put the donor designation on your license.
DONOR CARD: Sign a card and carry it with you. You can get a donor card from the New England
Organ Bank at the number listed below.
In addition to any of these methods, BE SURE to tell your family about your decision to donate.
For more information, contact the New England Organ Bank at 1-800-446-6362 or www.neob.org.
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XV. Passing Your Road Test
When reporting for your road test:
x
You must have your permit in your possession. Your permit is your identification in order to take the road
test. Photocopies are not acceptable.
x
Your vehicle must be registered in Rhode Island with only two exceptions: If the vehicle is registered to a
family member of a military person and/or the military person is stationed in Rhode Island. Valid military
ID will be required. All other rules apply.
x
A driving school with a valid out-of-state registration must have a current Special Rhode Island Financial
Responsibility Insurance Certificate (Form GU-1338b) on file with the Division of Motor Vehicle's Financial
Responsibility Section. A copy of this form must also be presented to the examiner at the road test site.
All other rules apply.
x
You must present the vehicle’s valid registration certificate.
x
You must present a valid insurance identification card.
x
There must be two plates on the vehicle.
x
The vehicle must have a valid inspection sticker that has not expired (Exception: Vehicles under two (2)
years old or with less than 24,000 miles are not required to have an inspection sticker).
x
Rental vehicles are not allowed for the road test.
x
Vehicles may have only the legal amount of window tint as described in RIGL 31-23.3
Failures must wait at least thirty (30) days before re-taking the road test. There are no same-day returns. If
your vehicle is rejected or if you do not have proper documentation you must re-schedule your road test.
Grounds for immediate termination of the Road Test:
Lack of or violation of any requirement mentioned above; collision; any motor vehicle violation as defined in Title
31 of the Motor Vehicle Code, 1956 as amended; dangerous actions; leaving the designated roadway;
dangerously inexperienced driver; lack of cooperation with the License Examiner, equipment failure or erratic
operation of the vehicle.
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XVI. One Final Word
Driving a motor vehicle is a privilege and not a right. A license to
drive brings with it a serious responsibility for the safety of
others and yourself. It has been said often that ‘the life you save
may be your own’. Always drive defensively and carefully. If
you do, you will have many years of enjoyment on the road.
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XVII. Appendices
A. Miscellaneous Motor Vehicle Laws
R.I.G.L. 31-23.3-2: Nontransparent Windshield and Windows:
No person shall own and operate any motor vehicle upon any public highway, road or street with transparent or
sunscreen material, window application, reflective film or non-reflective film used in any way to cover or treat
the front windshield, the side windows immediately adjacent to the right and left of the operator’s seat, the side
windows immediately to the rear of the operator’s seat and the front passenger seat and the rear windows
unless this vehicle meets one of the criteria set forth in 31-23.3-3. The fine for a violation of this law is $250.00.
Rhode Island follows the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards of a total visible light transmittance of not less
than seventy percent (70%).
R.I.G.L. 31-23-13.1: Altering height of or operating a motor vehicle with an altered height prohibited:
No person shall alter the height of or operate a motor vehicle with an altered height that has an original
manufacturer’s gross vehicle weight rating of up to and including ten thousand pounds (10,000 lbs.), by
elevating or lowering the chassis or body by more than four inches (4”) from the original manufacturer’s
specified height by use of so called ‘shackle lift kits’ for leaf springs or by use of lifts for coil springs, tires, or any
other means or device.
R.I.G.L. 31-45-1: Noise Limits:
(a) No person shall operate a motor vehicle, nor shall the owner of any vehicle allow the vehicle to be operated,
at any time, or under any condition of grade, load, acceleration, or deceleration, in such a manner as to exceed
the following noise limit based on a distance of fifty feet (50') from the center of the lane of travel within the
speed limit. For the purposes of this section, "dbA" means decibels measured with a calibrated sound level meter
weighted to the "A" scale.
(b) In speed zones of thirty-five miles per hour (35 mph) or less, not more than eighty-six (86) dbA. In speed
zones of more than thirty-five miles per hour (35 mph), not more than ninety (90) dbA.
Note: This law also allows local cities and towns to develop other means to deal with noise
regulations.
R.I.G.L. 31-24-22: Multiple beam lamps required:
Except as provided, the head lamps, or the auxiliary driving lamps, or combination of them on motor vehicles
other than a motorcycle or a motor-driven cycle, shall be arranged so that selection may be made between
distributions of light projected to different elevations.
R.I.G.L. 31-24-47: Regulation and certification of light devices:
The Administrator of the Division of Motor Vehicles is authorized to approve or disapprove lighting devices and to
issue and enforce regulations establishing standards and specifications for the approval of such lighting devices,
their installation and aiming. The regulations shall correlate with and, so far as possible, conform to the current
standards and specifications of the Society of Automotive Engineers applicable to the equipment.
B . Reserved
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BLANK PAGE
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C. Construction and Work Zone Safety Requirements
Each work zone presents a specific set of challenges to motorists, therefore, it is important to remain alert, slow
down, and be prepared for the potential hazards, which may present themselves as you pass through the
construction work zone. Construction signs are orange in color, diamond or rectangular in shape, and posted
prior to, within, and after the work zones. Orange construction signs warn motorists of potential hazards ahead
such as detours, lane closures, uneven pavement, flaggers, police officers, etc.
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Drive within the posted construction speed limits. Note: Fines are doubled for speeding tickets issued
within these designated areas twenty-four (24) hours a day.
Slow down and pay attention. Speed and inattention are two (2) of the most common causes of work
zone crashes.
Dedicate full attention to the roadway.
Refrain from distracting activities such as taking on the cell phone, changing radio stations, and
conversations with passengers.
Pay close attention to merge signs and flaggers and do not change lanes within the work zone.
Watch out for workers in the zone as well as their equipment.
Be aware of potential night work zones.
Expect the unexpected; work zones change hourly.
Do not tailgate; most work zone crashes are rear-end collisions.
Merge as soon as possible; motorists can help maintain traffic flow by moving to the appropriate lane at
first notice.
Stay calm. Roadwork is not your personal inconvenience; it is for the improvement of the roads for
everyone.
Flaggers or police officers use hand signals or signs to instruct motorists to slow down or stop, as
required. Flaggers have the legal authority to control traffic.
Motorists should be aware of other warning devices used in the work zone such as cones, barrels, tubes, panels,
barricades, flashing arrow boards, and temporary roadway markings.
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D. Directions to CCRI
Warwick:
Knight Campus, 400 East Avenue, Warwick, RI 02886 – 825-1214
I-95 North, take Exit 11 (I-295) to Exit 1 onto Route 113 West. Turn left at the first set of
lights into the campus.
I-95 South, take Exit 12B. Bear left at fork to Route 113 West. Turn left at the first set of
lights into the campus.
Lincoln:
Flanagan Campus, 1762 Louisquisset Pike, Lincoln, RI 02865 – 333-7070
Traveling North or South on Route 146, take Exit to Route 123. Turn left onto Route
123/Breakneck Hill Road; continue to campus entrance.
Providence:
Liston Campus, 1 Hilton Street, Providence, RI 02905 – 455-6019
I-95 North to Exit 18 (Thurbers Avenue). Bear left at the second light, take a right onto Eddy
Street. Travel Eddy Street and turn left onto Willard Avenue. Take a left onto Staniford Street
and the campus is on the right.
I-95 South to Exit 19 (Rhode Island Hospital). Take a left at the light on Eddy Street and
continue to Willard Avenue. Take a right onto Willard Avenue, then a left onto Staniford Street
and the campus is on the right.
Newport:
275 Broadway, Newport RI, 02840 – 851-1661
From Newport Bridge: Remain on access road to traffic signal. Newport Grand will be directly
across from the light. Turn right onto Admiral Kalbfus Road. Enter rotary and take first right
onto Connell Highway, and continue to campus on right.
From the North: Route 114 South (West Main Road). Turn right onto Coddington Highway to
campus on the left.
E. Driver Education Completion Certificates
Duplicate/Replacement Certificates
If you need a Rhode Island driver education certificate because you have lost the original or it has expired,
please send a request by mail along with a $10 check or money order payable to CCRI. Please be sure to include
the following information: name, address, telephone number, and information regarding when (approximate
date) and where the driver education course was taken.
Certification for courses taken out of State of Rhode Island
If you have taken an out-of-state driver education course and you need Rhode Island certification, please mail
the original certificate issued along with a request and a $10 check or money order payable to CCRI. The
request must include the following: name, address, telephone number, official documentation that indicates the
number of classroom training hours, proof of age, and information regarding when and where the driver
education course was taken.
To receive Rhode Island certification, those who have taken out-of-state courses must have participated in a
classroom experience of 33 hours minimum. Students with fewer than 33 contact hours are not eligible for a RI
Certificate and must register for the RI Driver Education Program. Proof of age can be documented by
submitting a copy of your birth certificate, passport, or baptismal record.
Please note: According to Rhode Island General Law, all out-of-state driver education programs must be
recognized by the RI Board of Governors for Higher Education as equivalent to the CCRI program.
Please mail all requests to:
CCRI’s Center for Workforce and Community Education
Attn: Driver Education Program
400 East Avenue
Warwick, RI 02886
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F. Summary of DMV Transactions (“How To”)
RENEWING YOUR DRIVER’S LICENSE
x
x
x
x
x
You can renew your driver’s license in any one of the branch offices during regular business hours.
Your license is valid for a maximum of five (5) years. If you are 68 years old or older, your license will
only be valid for two (2) years.
Renewal fees are $62.50 for five (5) years, and $24.50 for those seventy-one (71) and over. When
you renew your license at the DMV, you will be issued a temporary license valid for sixty (60) days.
Your actual license will be mailed to you.
To renew your license, you need to appear in person at a DMV branch office or a AAA branch (if you are
a current member). You should have your current license and renewal form. If you did not receive a
renewal from in the mail, just bring your current license. You must also bring your Social Security card
for verification purposes.
To change or correct your address on your license at the time you are renewing, you need to bring proof
of your new address.
CHANGING YOUR NAME OR ADDRESS
Address Change
The DMV requires license holders to keep their current address on file. To get a new photo license with your new
address you need to appear in person at any DMV branch office during regular business hours with your current
license and proof of residency (See Appendix G, Identification Requirements and Acceptable Documents).
If you do not want a new photo license, you may simply complete the Change of Address card (see 0, Sample
DMV Forms, Change of Address Notice) and mail it to the DMV.
Name Change
To change your name on your Rhode Island license, you are required to change your name with the Social
Security Administration first. Please allow at least twenty-four (24) hours for Social Security to make the change
to their records before changing your name with the DMV. If the name change is not in the Social Security
system, the DMV cannot process your name change on your license.
You must then appear in person at the DMV branch office during regular business hours, and bring the following
documents:
x
x
x
Your current Rhode Island license.
One document showing your correct name, such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree. The DMV
will also accept a notarized affidavit stating the change of name. This affidavit is available in any DMV
branch and must be signed by you and notarized.
Along with this affidavit, you must provide the DMV with two (2) documents evidencing the new name,
such as a Social Security card, a voter registration card, or current US passport.
The fee to change any information on a license is $7.50.
LOST OR DAMAGED LICENSES
If you lose or misplace your valid Rhode Island License, the DMV will issue a new copy. You must show one
identity document (legal name and date of birth) and one signature document from the acceptable documents
list (See Appendix G, Identification Requirements and Acceptable Documents). The fee is $27.50.
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Rhode Island Driver’s Manual – www.dmv.ri.gov
G. Identification Requirements and Acceptable Documents
All applicants for a driver’s license or identification card must provide one document from the “Identity” section,
one document from the “Signature” section and one document from the “Residency” section. At least two (2)
separate documents must be presented. No photocopies will be accepted as proof of identification.
Identity Documents (legal name and date of birth*)
x Valid U.S./U.S. Territory or Canadian Driver’s
License with photograph, signature, and date of
birth (must not be expired for more than one year);
or
x Birth certificate: must be original or certified copy,
have a seal, and be issued by an authorized
government agency such as the Bureau of Vital
Statistics. Hospital-issued certificates are not
acceptable; or
Baptismal certificate: must be original or certified
copy, be issued by a church in the U.S., have an
issue date of within one (1) year of applicant’s birth,
and contain the date of birth
x U.S. or foreign passport (B1, B2, and expired
passports are not acceptable); or
x U.S. Naturalization Certificate; or
x INS form I-94 (document showing entry into U.S.);
or
x INS form I-688 (Temporary Resident Identification
Card); or
x INS form I-766 (Employment Authorization Card);
or
x U.S. Active Service, Retiree, or Reservist Military ID
Card
* Government issued Marriage Certificate/License required to prove name change from primary identity
document.
Signature Documents
x Valid U.S./U.S. Territory or Canadian Driver’s
License with photograph, signature, and date of
birth (must not be expired for more than one year);
or
x U.S. or foreign passport (B1, B2, and expired
passports are not acceptable); or
Proof of Residency Documents
x Valid Voter Registration Card. (or certified letter
from Board of Canvassers)
x Utility bill (gas, electric, telephone, cable, oil) in your
name or in the name of an immediate family
member with the same last name (proof of
relationship must be presented) ; or
x Personal check or bank statement with your name
and address (no P.O. box) ; or
x Valid original lease agreement with your name and
address (Landlord’s name, address, and telephone
number also must be provided)
x Social Security Card (not a copy); or
x Work or school ID; or
x U.S. Active Service, Retiree, or Reservist Military ID
Card
x Payroll check stub with your name and address ; or
x Welfare check stub or food stamp card with your
name and address
x Insurance policy for your home/apartment with your
name and address ; or
x Property tax bill for your residence ; or
x If a minor, school records, which include the
student’s address and are for the current school
year (or past year if during summer vacation).
Acceptable records include a report card, diploma,
transcript or ID card, together with and parent’s
license/ID with same address. will be accepted
Social Security Number
The Division of Motor Vehicles is required by law to record Social Security Numbers for all applicants for a
Driver’s License. All new applicants must provide an official Social Security Card (laminated or metal cards are
not acceptable). All social security numbers are verified electronically with the Social Security Administration.
If you do not have a valid social security number, you must present a foreign passport and appropriate visa or
documentation to validate the ineligibility for a social security number.
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Rhode Island Driver’s Manual – www.dmv.ri.gov
Driver’s License
Provisional Driver’s
License
Identification Card
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Rhode Island Driver’s Manual – www.dmv.ri.gov
Index
A
N
ABS – Anti-lock Braking System ........................... 42, 65
Acceleration lanes ..................................................... 34
Aggressive Driving ..................................... 23-24, 53-54
Airbags.................................................................... 65
Alcohol .............................................. 17, 21, 53, 57-61
No zones ................................................................. 49
Noise Limits ............................................................. 69
Nontransparent Windshield and Windows ..................... 69
B
Off Road Recovery .................................................... 43
Orderly Visual Search Pattern ..................................... 47
Organ and Tissue Donor Program ............................... 66
Basic Speed Law ....................................................... 35
Bicycle(s) ...................................... 19, 37, 39-40, 51-53
Blind spot .......................................... 31-33, 43, 46, 49
Blowout ................................................................... 42
Brake Failure ............................................................ 42
C
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning........................................ 45
Cellular Phone ..................................... 18-19, 35-36, 63
Child Restraint Law ................................................... 25
Collision…………… 12, 15, 17, 18-21, 25, 28, 35, 40, 42-45,
47-50, 57, 62-63, 67, 71
Construction ........................................... 19, 35, 63, 71
Construction signs .................................................... 71
Counter-steer ........................................................... 43
Cover the brake........................................................ 40
D
Deceleration lanes .................................................... 34
Defensive driving ...................................................... 47
Drugs ...........................................................17, 57, 63
O
P
Parallel Parking .................................................. 31, 52
Park on Hills ............................................................. 32
Passing............................... 24, 33, 35, 37, 39, 46,51-53
Pedestrians......19, 28-30, 33-35, 39-41, 50-51, 53,55-56
Protected turn lane ................................................... 40
R
Railroad crossing ................................ 32-33, 44, 51, 62
Right Turn on Red ..................................................... 40
Right-of-way .................. 28-29, 35, 40-41, 50-51, 55, 63
Road rage ......................................................23-24, 35
Road test .......................................11-13, 15-16, 29, 67
Roadway Markings ......................................... 37, 44, 71
Rotary/Roundabout ................................................... 39
S
G
Safe Driving on the Highway ...................................... 35
School Buses...................................................... 51, 55
Seat Belts .......................................................... 25, 65
Signals .............................. 21, 37, 39-41, 44, 50, 55, 71
Signs ........... 19-21, 29, 31-33, 37, 39-40, 44, 51, 55-56,
71
Skid ........................................................................ 42
Starting On A Hill ...................................................... 32
Steering ............ 17-18, 25, 27, 29-30, 42-43, 47, 49, 64,
65, 70
Stopping distance .......................................... 27, 46, 48
Supervising driver................................................ 11-15
Graduated licensing system ................................. 10, 15
T
H
Tailgating ..................................................... 49, 53, 63
Three-second rule ..................................................... 48
Tires ........................................... 21, 27, 33, 43, 65, 69
Trucks ............................................... 35, 45-47, 49, 57
Turnabouts .............................................................. 29
Turn signals .................................................. 24, 34, 65
E
Engine Failure .......................................................... 43
F
Fire ......................................................................... 45
Four (4) Second Stopping Rule ............................. 46, 48
Freeway Driving ....................................................... 34
Hand signals ...................................................... 37, 71
Headlights ............ 13, 24, 33, 43, 44, 46, 47, 49, 53, 55,
64, 65, 70
Highway hypnosis ..................................................... 34
Horse ...................................................................... 55
Hydroplaning............................................................ 27
U
I
Uncontrolled intersections .......................................... 40
Implied Consent ....................................................... 58
Inspection............................................... 13, 15, 56, 67
Insurance ......................... 13, 15, 55, 62, 64, 67, 69, 74
IPDE ....................................................................... 47
V
L
Lane changes ...................................................... 33-35
Lane Positions .......................................................... 48
License suspension .........................................15, 59-60
Limited Instructional Permit .............................10-13, 15
Mr. Smith ................................................................ 47
Vehicle in Water ....................................................... 45
Velocitizing ........................................................ 27, 34
Vision test ............................................................... 11
Z
Zone system ............................................................ 47
M
Motorcycles ........................................................ 19, 46
Mr. Smith ................................................................ 47
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Rhode Island Driver’s Manual – www.dmv.ri.gov
DMV Locations and Hours
OFFICE ADDRESSES
Cranston (Main Office): 600 New London Avenue, Cranston, RI 02920
Middletown: 52 Valley Road, Middletown, RI 02842
Wakefield: Government Center, 4808 Tower Hill Road, Wakefield, RI 02879
Warren: Government Center/Police Headquarters, 1 Joyce Street, Warren, RI 02885
Westerly: Westerly Town Hall, 45 Broad Street, Westerly, RI 02891
Woonsocket: 217 Pond Street, Woonsocket, RI 02865
For days and hours of operation for each office, please visit the DMV website
www.dmv.ri.gov
DMV Business Office Telephone Numbers
Main Information
Accidents
Automobile Dealers' License & Regulation
Cashiers
Directions to Offices
Disability Parking
Enforcement
Financial Responsibility
Overweight/Oversize Permits
Plates
Sales Tax (Motor Vehicles ONLY)
School Bus Safety
Tax Delinquent
Titles
(401)
(401)
(401)
(401)
(401)
(401)
(401)
(401)
(401)
(401)
(401)
(401)
(401)
(401)
462-4368
462-5710
462-5731
462-5807
462-4368
462-5840
462-5736
462-5747
462-5747
462-5801
462-5765
462-5772
462-5720
462-5774
Operator Control
600 New London Avenue
Cranston, RI 02920
(401) 462-0800
Safety & Emission Control
325 Melrose Street, Providence
Office
Garage
(401) 462-5890
(401) 462-5893
Road Tests
325 Melrose Street, Providence
(401) 462-5750
For more information, forms and online services, please visit the DMV website
www.dmv.ri.gov
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Rhode Island Driver’s Manual – www.dmv.ri.gov
SIGNS
Warning Signs
Yield Sign
Ahead
Railroad Crossing
Here
Traffic Signal
Ahead
Stop Sign
Ahead
No Passing
Zone
Road Alignment
(curve)
School
Crossing
Detour
Side Road
(right)
Slow Moving
Vehicle
Entering Divided
Highway
Railroad Crossing
Ahead
Leaving Divided
Highway
Left Curve
Right Curve
Winding
Road
Fire Station
Pedestrian
Crossing
Object Markers
(bridges)
Road Narrows
(from right)
Added lane
(from left)
Tractor
Crossing
Deer
Crossing
Bicycle
Crossing
Ramp Speed
Advisory
Intersection
Playground
Two-Way
Traffic
Road End
Marker
Object
Marker
Slippery
When Wet
Construction
Speed
Narrow
Bridge
Flagperson
Ahead
Hill
Road Work
Traffic
Island
Intersection
Construction
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